Driving Cost from Denver, Colorado to Lafayette, Colorado

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Driving from Denver to Lafayette: Understanding Your Trip Costs in Today's Gas Prices

Embarking on a road trip from Denver to Lafayette, Colorado is an exciting adventure! Whether you are heading out for a day of fun or commuting for work, it's helpful to know the cost of getting there. In this post, we’ll break down the costs based on different routes, considering current gas prices and potential tolls.

Route 1: I-25 N

Let’s start with the most straightforward route: taking I-25 N. This route offers a smooth drive with scenic views, making it a favorite among locals.

  • Distance: Approximately 30 miles
  • Time: The drive typically takes 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Cost: With current gas prices averaging around $3.50 per gallon and assuming your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon, the total cost of gas for this trip would be about $4.20. Keep in mind, this route does not include tolls, so it's a straightforward and economical choice!

Route 2: E-470

Now, if you’re looking to save time, consider taking E-470. It’s a bit of a longer route but can help you avoid heavy traffic.

  • Distance: Approximately 35 miles
  • Time: This route usually takes around 40-50 minutes.
  • Cost: Using the same gas price of $3.50 per gallon, the total cost for gas would be roughly $4.90 if your car averages 25 miles per gallon. Additionally, prepare for some tolls! E-470 includes toll fees of about $6.00, bringing your grand total to $10.90 for this route.

Route 3: Local Roads

For those who enjoy sampling the local scenery, taking the back roads through cities like Westminster can be delightful.

  • Distance: Approximately 28 miles
  • Time: The drive may take around 1 hour due to stoplights and potential traffic.
  • Cost: Using the same gas price of $3.50 per gallon, and assuming your gas mileage stays the same, the total cost for gas would be about $3.92. Since this route involves no tolls, the total cost is only $3.92.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, your choice of route from Denver to Lafayette can significantly affect the cost and time of your trip. The I-25 N route offers the best combination of affordability and efficiency, while E-470 can save time at a slightly higher price due to tolls. Alternatively, the local roads offer a budget-friendly option for those who appreciate a leisurely drive.

Regardless of which route you choose, happy driving! Enjoy your journey and the beautiful scenery Colorado has to offer!