Driving Cost from Denver, Colorado to Lincoln Park, New York

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Denver to Lincoln Park: Navigating Gas Prices and Route Options

Planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado, to Lincoln Park, New York, offers a mix of scenic views, cultural experiences, and the thrill of the open road. However, understanding the cost of your journey—including gas prices and the most efficient route—is essential to budgeting correctly. In this article, we will explore various routes, their distances, estimated fuel costs based on current gas prices, and recommend the best option for your trip.

Understanding Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in the United States hovers around $3.60 per gallon. While prices can vary from state to state, understanding this average helps gauge your total fuel expense for the trip. The total distance between Denver and Lincoln Park is roughly 1,400 miles, and your car's fuel efficiency will significantly influence your overall cost.

To estimate gas expenses, you can use the following formula: [ \text = \left(\frac{\text}{\text}\right) \times \text ]

For example, if your vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon, the cost would be: [ \text = \left(\frac{1400}{25}\right) \times 3.60 = 198.00 ]

Now let's explore various routes you could take for the trip.

Route Options

Route 1: I-70 East to I-80 East

Distance: Approximately 1,400 miles
Estimated Time: 21 hours
Tolls: Minimal on this route, with some tolls in Nebraska.

Taking the I-70 East and then connecting to I-80 East is one of the most straightforward and scenic routes between Denver and Lincoln Park. This route takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Colorado, the plains of Nebraska, and into the rolling hills of the Midwest.

Gas Cost Calculation: Using the same example above for a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon: [ \text = \left(\frac{1400}{25}\right) \times 3.60 = 198.00 ]

Route 2: I-25 North to I-80 East

Distance: Approximately 1,450 miles
Estimated Time: 22 hours
Tolls: None on this route.

This alternative takes I-25 North from Denver, connecting to I-80 East. This route adds about 50 miles, but it can be picturesque, especially as it passes areas like Wyoming's rolling hills.

Gas Cost Calculation: [ \text = \left(\frac{1450}{25}\right) \times 3.60 = 261.00 ]

Route 3: Scenic Route via I-70 East

Distance: Approximately 1,490 miles
Estimated Time: 25 hours
Tolls: Additional state park entrance fees may apply.

Consider taking U.S. Highway 285 and scenic byways as part of your journey if you have extra time and want more scenic views. This route allows you to explore small towns in Colorado and deeper forests as you progress east. Although beautiful, this option will lengthen your travel time significantly.

Gas Cost Calculation: [ \text = \left(\frac{1490}{25}\right) \times 3.60 = 214.56 ]

Route 4: I-70 to I-64 East

Distance: Approximately 1,600 miles
Estimated Time: 27 hours
Tolls: Moderate tolls in Illinois and Indiana.

If you want to explore a broader region to the south, this route takes I-70 to I-64 East, providing an entirely different cultural experience. However, this route is longer and costs more in terms of gas.

Gas Cost Calculation: [ \text = \left(\frac{1600}{25}\right) \times 3.60 = 230.40 ]

After considering all options, Route 1 (I-70 East to I-80 East) emerges as the best choice for a combination of efficiency, cost, and scenic beauty. This route offers the best balance, providing an enjoyable journey without unnecessary detours that significantly extend travel time. With an estimated cost of $198.00 and a travel time of approximately 21 hours, it stands out as an ideal option for road trip enthusiasts.

Additional Traveling Costs

While gas prices certainly play a major role in costing a trip, it is wise to consider additional expenses you might encounter:

  1. Food: Plan for meals on the road—fast food could cost around $10 to $15 per person per meal.
  2. Lodging: If you're planning on making this a multi-day trip, consider your hotel accommodations. Budget hotels can cost anywhere from $75 to $150 per night.
  3. Attractions: If you wish to explore attractions along the route, entry fees and other costs may apply. Factor these into your total budget as well.

Conclusion

Traveling from Denver, Colorado, to Lincoln Park, New York, offers a vast array of experiences, with rich landscapes and the joy of driving across different regions. Following the I-70 East to I-80 East route provides the most efficient journey, clocking in at approximately 21 hours and an estimated fuel cost of around $198. Embrace the adventure, enjoy the sights along the way, and savor the freedom of the open road.