The Cost of Driving From Denver, Colorado to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania: A Gas Price Breakdown

Planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania? You're in for an adventure! However, before you hit the road, it’s important to consider the costs associated with your travels, especially gas prices, which can fluctuate quite a bit. Let’s dive into the different routes, distances, travel times, and costs so you can budget your trip effectively.

Route 1: I-70 E and I-76 E

Starting off with the most popular route, taking Interstate 70 East and then merging onto Interstate 76 East, you'll cover a distance of approximately 1,300 miles.

• Distance: 1,300 miles
• Estimated Time: about 20 hours of driving
• Gas Cost Calculations:
  • Current average gas price: $3.50 per gallon (as of October 2023)
  • Estimated fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  • Total gallons needed: 52 gallons
  • Total gas cost: $182

In addition, there might be some tolls along the way, particularly when you pass through Pennsylvania. Expect to pay around $25 in tolls, bringing your total estimated trip cost for this route to about $207.

Route 2: I-80 E

Another option is taking Interstate 80 East. This route is slightly longer but often has less traffic than I-70. Here’s what to expect:

• Distance: approximately 1,370 miles
• Estimated Time: around 21 hours of driving
• Gas Cost Calculations:
  • Current average gas price: $3.50 per gallon
  • Estimated fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  • Total gallons needed: 55 gallons
  • Total gas cost: $192.50

Unfortunately, this route also includes tolls, especially in the eastern states. Budget approximately $30 for tolls, so your total trip cost for this route would be roughly $222.50.

Route 3: I-25 N to I-80 E

Lastly, consider this alternate route that takes you north on I-25 before you switch over to I-80 E. It’s a bit scenic, especially in Colorado.

• Distance: approximately 1,340 miles
• Estimated Time: around 20.5 hours of driving
• Gas Cost Calculations:
  • Current average gas price: $3.50 per gallon
  • Estimated fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  • Total gallons needed: 54 gallons
  • Total gas cost: $189

This route may have fewer tolls than the others, costing around $20, bringing your total estimated cost for this route to $209.

Conclusion

There you have it! While the costs of driving from Denver to Harrisburg can vary based on the route you choose, keeping a close eye on current gas prices and tolls can help you budget effectively.

Whether you opt for the quickest route or the more scenic one, enjoying the journey is just as important as the destination. Pack your bags, enjoy the drive, and travel safely on your road trip!