Cost of a Road Trip: Denver, Colorado to College Park, Georgia Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling from Denver, Colorado to College Park, Georgia can be an exciting adventure full of scenic views and cultural experiences. However, road-trippers often find themselves wondering about the costs associated with such a journey. In this article, we will break down the trip into several sections, examining different routes, calculating fuel expenses based on current gas prices, and ultimately recommending the best route for your journey.
Overview of the Trip
The distance between Denver and College Park is approximately 800 to 900 miles, depending on the route you choose. This journey typically takes around 12 to 14 hours of driving time without factoring in fuel stops, meals, and overnight accommodations. The cost of gas is a critical aspect to consider given the distance involved. As of October 2023, the average price of regular gasoline in the United States hovers around $3.50 per gallon. With these variables in mind, let’s explore the routes you can take for this journey.
Route Options
1. Interstate 70 and Interstate 40
The first and most direct option is to take Interstate 70 East from Denver. Then, drivers switch to Interstate 40 East toward Atlanta, which connects to College Park. This route covers approximately 850 miles, making it the shortest option.
- Distance: 850 miles
- Driving Time: Approximately 12-13 hours
- Estimated Fuel Cost:
Assuming your vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon, you would need about 34 gallons of gas for the trip. At an average price of $3.50 per gallon, your fuel cost would be:
[ 34 \text \times 3.50 = $119 ]
2. Interstate 25 and Interstate 44
Another option involves taking Interstate 25 South from Denver and then merging onto Interstate 44 East. This route veers slightly off the direct path but still leads you to College Park.
- Distance: 900 miles
- Driving Time: Approximately 13-14 hours
- Estimated Fuel Cost:
Using the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the calculations yield:
[ 900 \text \div 25 \text = 36 \text ] [ 36 \text \times 3.50 = $126 ]
3. Alternate Scenic Routes
If you are looking to enjoy some scenic elements of the trip, consider taking back roads, which might include portions of US Highway 87 through New Mexico before merging onto Interstate 40. While this route is longer—roughly 950 miles—you may drive through picturesque landscapes, national parks, and smaller towns.
- Distance: 950 miles
- Driving Time: Approximately 14-15 hours
- Estimated Fuel Cost:
Calculating on the same basis as before:
[ 950 \text \div 25 \text = 38 \text ] [ 38 \text \times 3.50 = $133 ]
Comparison of Routes
Now that we have various routes and their costs laid out, let’s summarize the total distances, driving times, and fuel expenses:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Driving Time (hours) | Fuel Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-70 and I-40 | 850 | 12-13 | $119 |
| I-25 and I-44 | 900 | 13-14 | $126 |
| Scenic Route | 950 | 14-15 | $133 |
Recommended Route
Considering both cost and time efficiency in a straightforward manner, the route via Interstate 70 and Interstate 40 emerges as the best option. This route offers the quickest travel time at around 12-13 hours and the lowest fuel costs at approximately $119. For road-trippers looking to maximize time spent on their adventure rather than on the road, this route is advisable.
Additional Costs
Beyond fuel, it's vital to consider additional trip costs. Think about meals, snacks, accommodation (if needed), and possible tolls along the way. Depending on personal needs, your daily expenses may vary. Here’s a rough estimate of those costs:
- Meals: Expect around $10-$15 per meal. A two-day trip may lead to $60-$90 in food expenses.
- Accommodation: If you opt to break the journey, consider budgeting $80-$150 per night for hotels or motels.
- Miscellaneous: This could include snacks, tolls, and entertainment, so budgeting an additional $30-$50 would be wise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey from Denver, Colorado to College Park, Georgia can be a memorable experience filled with beautiful landscapes. Utilizing the recommended route via Interstate 70 and Interstate 40 not only provides a quick travel time of approximately 12 to 13 hours but also limits fuel costs to around $119. Considering additional costs, such as meals and lodging, will help you plan a budget-friendly and enjoyable trip. With a little planning, you can set off on an adventure that balances both fun and practicality! Safe travels!