Crunching the Numbers: Cost of Driving from Denver, Colorado to La Follette, Tennessee Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from the picturesque foothills of Denver to the scenic landscapes of La Follette can be an exciting adventure! However, managing travel costs is essential. In this post, I’ll break down the most common driving routes and their associated costs, travel times, and distances based on the current gas prices. Let’s hit the road!

Route 1: I-70 E and I-64 E

This is the most direct route that many travelers take when driving from Denver to La Follette.

Distance: Approximately 920 miles
Time: About 13 hours of driving time

As for gas prices, let’s consider the current average in Colorado, which is approximately $3.60 per gallon, and in Tennessee, where it's around $3.40 per gallon. Your vehicle’s fuel efficiency plays a significant role in calculating the total cost. For instance, if your car gets 25 miles per gallon, you would need about 36.8 gallons of gas for the entire trip.

Calculating the cost:

Gas Cost: 36.8 gallons x $3.60 (Colorado gas price) = $132.48 (outbound)
Gas Cost: 36.8 gallons x $3.40 (Tennessee gas price) = $124.32 (return trip)
Total Gas Cost: $256.80

Note that there are no tolls on this route, so you can save a bit there!

Route 2: I-25 S and I-40 E

For those who prefer a more scenic route, the combination of I-25 S and I-40 E offers a delightful view, especially through New Mexico and Arkansas.

Distance: Approximately 960 miles
Time: About 14 hours of driving time

Using the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’d need roughly 38.4 gallons of gas.

Calculating the cost for this route looks like this:

Gas Cost: 38.4 gallons x $3.60 (Colorado) = $138.24 (outbound)
Gas Cost: 38.4 gallons x $3.40 (Tennessee) = $130.56 (return trip)
Total Gas Cost: $268.80

Unlike the first route, you may encounter some tolls depending on your specific path, which can add a little extra to your trip costs. Typically, these tolls can range from $10 to $20, so let’s keep that in mind.

Route 3: I-70 E and I-75 S

This third option takes you through the heart of the Midwest and can be quite enjoyable if you're looking to explore different states.

Distance: Approximately 900 miles
Time: About 12 hours 30 minutes

For this route, you would consume about 36 gallons of gas at your vehicle's average efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

Here’s a cost breakdown:

Gas Cost: 36 gallons x $3.60 = $129.60 (outbound)
Gas Cost: 36 gallons x $3.40 = $122.40 (return trip)
Total Gas Cost: $252.00

Like the first option, this route typically does not involve significant tolls, keeping your expenses lower.

Conclusion

While driving from Denver to La Follette offers a chance to soak in beautiful vistas and great experiences, understanding the costs involved helps you plan better. In summary:

Route 1: 920 miles, $256.80, 13 hours
Route 2: 960 miles, $268.80, 14 hours
Route 3: 900 miles, $252.00, 12 hours 30 minutes

With these various routes, you can choose based on your preferences for time, scenery, or cost. Safe travels, and enjoy your journey!