Calculating the Cost of Driving from Denver, Colorado to Gatlinburg, Tennessee: A Gas Price Guide
Planning a road trip from Denver to Gatlinburg can be an exhilarating experience! However, knowing the costs involved, especially with fluctuating gas prices, is essential for budgeting your adventure. In this post, we'll break down different routes you can take, the distance involved, the driving time, and an estimated cost based on current gas prices. So buckle up, and let’s hit the road!
Route 1: I-70 E and I-40 E
One popular route involves taking I-70 E and I-40 E. This scenic drive offers various landscapes to enjoy along the way—ranging from mountains to stunning valleys.
- Distance: Approximately 850 miles
- Time: Roughly 12 hours of driving
- Gas Cost: With current gas prices averaging around $3.50 per gallon and assuming your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon, the total gas cost would be around $119 for a one-way trip.
This route does not have any significant tolls, making it budget-friendly!
Route 2: I-25 S and I-40 E
Another great option is the route via I-25 S and I-40 E. This route allows you to experience some great sights while also taking you through New Mexico and Texas.
- Distance: Roughly 900 miles
- Time: Expect about 13 hours of driving
- Gas Cost: Using the same gas price average of $3.50 per gallon and a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, anticipate spending around 126 on gas for the trip.
Just like the first route, this option also has minimal toll fees, so you can save more for fun activities in Gatlinburg!
Route 3: Scenic Detour via US-64 E
If you're looking for a more scenic experience, consider taking US-64 E, which will allow you to enjoy additional beautiful landscapes along your journey.
- Distance: Close to 1,000 miles
- Time: About 14 hours of driving
- Gas Cost: At an average of $3.50 per gallon and with 25 miles per gallon, expect to pay around 140 for gas.
While this route is longer, the extra hours on the road can be well worth it if you’re keen on seeing some fantastic sights along the way. Moreover, this route also avoids major tolls!
Conclusion
In conclusion, when planning your road trip from Denver to Gatlinburg, you have several options that can fit different preferences for scenery or time. Regardless of which route you choose, considering the distance, driving time, and gas costs will ensure that you're fully prepared for your adventure.
With gas prices currently hovering around $3.50 per gallon, make sure you budget accordingly to make the most of your trip. So, grab your favorite snacks, queue up your best road trip playlists, and enjoy your journey from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Smoky Mountains! Happy travels! 🚗🌄