Driving Cost from Denver, Colorado to Keystone, South Dakota

A picture depicting a gas pump

Cost of a Road Trip from Denver, Colorado to Keystone, South Dakota: What's the Price Tag with Current Gas Prices?

Planning a road trip can be a thrilling venture, especially when traveling through the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado and South Dakota. However, understanding the costs associated with travel can help you budget your trip effectively. In this article, we will outline the different routes you can take from Denver to Keystone, South Dakota, highlight the associated costs, and offer valuable recommendations.

Overview of the Trip

The distance from Denver to Keystone, South Dakota, largely depends on the route you choose. Each route varies in distance and features different scenery, attractions, and road conditions. It is essential to consider these factors along with current gas prices to estimate the overall cost of your trip.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average cost of gas in Colorado rests around $3.80 per gallon, while South Dakota averages about $3.50 per gallon. For our calculations, let’s use an average price of $3.65 per gallon, which gives us a reasonably accurate figure for budgeting. Additionally, the average fuel economy of most mid-size vehicles stands at approximately 25 miles per gallon. Based on these factors, we can compute the gas costs involved in this journey.

Route Options

Route 1: I-25 N to I-90 E

  • Distance: Approximately 370 miles
  • Driving Time: About 5 hours and 30 minutes
  • Key Features: This route takes you north on I-25, transitioning to I-90. You'll travel through beautiful landscapes, including the plains and rolling hills, showcasing the vastness of the Great Plains.

Estimated Gas Costs

  1. Total miles: 370 miles
  2. Fuel economy: 25 mpg
  3. Total gallons needed: ( \frac{370}{25} = 14.8 ) gallons
  4. Total gas cost: ( 14.8 \times 3.65 = $54.02 )

Route 2: I-70 W to I-25 N to I-90 E

  • Distance: Approximately 430 miles
  • Driving Time: About 7 hours
  • Key Features: This alternative route includes I-70, which features stunning mountain views, particularly through the Rocky Mountains. You then merge back to I-25 North before taking I-90 East into South Dakota. Although this route is longer, it provides a visually enriching experience.

Estimated Gas Costs

  1. Total miles: 430 miles
  2. Fuel economy: 25 mpg
  3. Total gallons needed: ( \frac{430}{25} = 17.2 ) gallons
  4. Total gas cost: ( 17.2 \times 3.65 = $62.78 )

Route 3: I-76 E to I-80 N

  • Distance: Approximately 405 miles
  • Driving Time: About 6 hours
  • Key Features: This route diverges through I-76 before merging onto I-80 N. The drive features a variety of terrains and landscapes, from urban settings to rural fields.

Estimated Gas Costs

  1. Total miles: 405 miles
  2. Fuel economy: 25 mpg
  3. Total gallons needed: ( \frac{405}{25} = 16.2 ) gallons
  4. Total gas cost: ( 16.2 \times 3.65 = $59.13 )

Recommendations: Best Route to Take

Taking into consideration comfort, scenery, and cost efficiency, Route 1 (I-25 N to I-90 E) stands out as the best option. While it may not offer the extensive mountain views found along I-70, it remains the most cost-effective route. Traveling just 370 miles, you’ll save on gas costs while reaching your destination in about 5 hours and 30 minutes. Moreover, you can enjoy the diverse landscapes of the Great Plains without the hassle of long delays or extensive detours.

Additional Costs to Consider

While gas expenses make up a significant portion of trip costs, consider other potential expenditures, such as:

Food and Beverages

Most road trips involve stopping for snacks or meals. Budgeting around $15-$30 per person for food during your trip would provide a decent cushion for meals on the go.

Lodging

If you plan to turn your road trip into an overnight affair, factor in lodging costs. Hotel rates vary widely based on location, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $80 to $150 for budget to mid-range accommodations.

Toll Roads

Some routes may feature toll roads, but thankfully, the primary routes from Denver to Keystone do not typically involve high toll costs.

Attractions and Activities

If you want to make your trip more exciting, consider expenses related to attractions along the way, such as national parks or recreational sites. These fees can vary, so researching beforehand would help allocate an appropriate budget.

Conclusion

In summary, taking the road from Denver to Keystone, South Dakota, is an adventurous journey enriched with stunning scenery and varied landscapes. Opting for the I-25 N to I-90 E route, you can expect a total driving distance of around 370 miles that takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes, with estimated gas costs around $54.02. With careful planning and budgeting for additional expenses, you’re bound to create an unforgettable travel experience. Safe travels!