Driving Cost from Denver, Colorado to Farmington, New Mexico

A picture depicting a gas pump

Budgeting Your Trip: The Cost of Traveling from Denver, Colorado to Farmington, New Mexico Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip between Denver, Colorado, and Farmington, New Mexico, can be an exciting endeavor, especially if you're looking to explore the beautiful southwestern landscape. As with any road trip, it’s essential to consider the costs involved, especially with fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will explore various routes, their distances, and the estimated costs based on current gas prices.

Understanding the Distance and Routes

The distance from Denver to Farmington, NM, is approximately 360 miles. However, depending on the route you take, the mileage and travel time can vary significantly. Here are the most common routes you might consider:

Route 1: The I-25 S and US-550 S Route

  • Distance: Approximately 366 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 6 hours
  • Major Stops: Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Alamosa, Durango

This route takes you south on Interstate 25, passing through beautiful cities and landscapes. After you reach the town of Walsenburg, you’ll switch to US-550 S, which offers picturesque views and leads you directly to Farmington.

Route 2: The I-70 W and US-550 S Route

  • Distance: Approximately 410 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 6.5 hours
  • Major Stops: Vail, Grand Junction, Cortez

Taking I-70 west offers scenic mountain views, but it’s a slightly longer route. Once you hit Grand Junction, you’ll head south on US-550, which leads into New Mexico, bringing its own unique beauty.

Route 3: The Highway 285 S and US-64 W Route

  • Distance: Approximately 380 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: Roughly 7 hours
  • Major Stops: Raton, Las Vegas (NM), Taos

This route takes you through more rural parts of Colorado and New Mexico. You'll travel on Highway 285, a likely less trafficked road, which offers serene landscapes and fewer fast-paced cities.

Calculating Gas Costs

With the routes laid out, the next logical step is calculating the cost of gas. With current gas prices hovering around $3.50 per gallon, you can estimate your total gas expense by considering your vehicle's mileage.

Fuel Efficiency Calculation

Let's say your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon (MPG). Here’s how to estimate your gas expenses for each route:

  1. Route 1: I-25 S and US-550 S

    • Miles: 366 miles
    • Gallons Needed: 366 miles / 25 MPG = 14.64 gallons
    • Cost of Gas: 14.64 gallons × $3.50 = $51.24

  2. Route 2: I-70 W and US-550 S

    • Miles: 410 miles
    • Gallons Needed: 410 miles / 25 MPG = 16.4 gallons
    • Cost of Gas: 16.4 gallons × $3.50 = $57.40

  3. Route 3: Highway 285 S and US-64 W

    • Miles: 380 miles
    • Gallons Needed: 380 miles / 25 MPG = 15.2 gallons
    • Cost of Gas: 15.2 gallons × $3.50 = $53.20

Comparing Routes

Based on fuel costs, here's a summary of what each route would average:

  • Route 1 (I-25 S): $51.24 (366 miles)
  • Route 2 (I-70 W): $57.40 (410 miles)
  • Route 3 (Highway 285 S): $53.20 (380 miles)

Considering both cost and travel time, the best route appears to be Route 1 (I-25 S and US-550 S). Not only does it offer the least amount of gas expenditure, but it also allows for a reasonably quick journey while presenting captivating views of the Rocky Mountains and the unique southwestern landscapes of New Mexico.

Additional Costs to Consider

While gas is a significant factor in your travel budget, don't forget to account for other potential expenses:

  1. Tolls: While none of the primary routes between Denver and Farmington typically incurs tolls, plan accordingly for fees if rerouting through expressways or alternative paths.

  2. Food and Drinks: Budget for meals. Depending on your travel style, you may opt for fast food, sit-down restaurants, or even packing your meals.

  3. Accommodations: If you plan on making this a multi-day trip, consider hotel prices along your route. Research hotels in small communities if you're looking to stretch your budget.

  4. Attractions: Budget for any attractions or activities you might want to do once you arrive at Farmington.

Trip Duration

Once you choose your route and plan your costs, understand the time it will take to travel. Regardless of which route you choose, plan for a full day of travel. Including potential stops for food, gas, or sightseeing could extend your trip to 7 hours or more, depending on how frequently you stop.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from Denver to Farmington can be an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning views and experiences. Choosing the I-25 S and US-550 S route not only saves you money on gas—approximately $51.24—but also ensures a streamlined travel experience. Plan for approximately 6 hours on the road, but allow for additional time for breaks and exploration along the way. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination!