The Cost of Driving from Denver, Colorado to Pass Christian, Mississippi: Gas Prices Edition
Planning a road trip from the stunning Rockies of Colorado to the serene shores of Pass Christian, Mississippi? Well, buckle up! Not only will you get to enjoy the diverse scenery along the way, but you'll also want to pin down an accurate estimate for the cost of driving, especially considering today's gas prices. Let’s break down your options, covering different routes, distances, travel times, and estimated costs.
Route 1: The Scenic I-70 to I-40
One of the most picturesque routes from Denver to Pass Christian takes you along I-70, connecting to I-40 in New Mexico. This route offers beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains and the deserts in southern New Mexico.
- Distance: Approximately 1,071 miles
- Time: About 16 hours and 30 minutes without accounting for breaks
- Estimated Gas Cost: Assuming a gas price of $3.50 per gallon and fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you would spend around $150 on gas.
Additionally, this route may include several small tolls, but they rarely add up to more than $15 total.
Route 2: The Direct I-25 to I-20
If your focus is purely on getting to Pass Christian with fewer scenic detours, the I-25 to I-20 route could be your best bet. This route is more direct and allows for a quicker journey, albeit with fewer picturesque landscapes.
- Distance: Approximately 1,050 miles
- Time: About 15 hours and 30 minutes without stops
- Estimated Gas Cost: With the same gas price of $3.50 per gallon and an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, your estimated gas expense would be around $147.
You might encounter a couple of tolls along this route as well, amounting to about $10 altogether.
Route 3: The Coastal Route via I-10
If you’re in the mood for a leisurely drive that allows you to dip your toes into the Gulf of Mexico, consider taking I-10 from western Texas into Louisiana and then back to Mississippi. While this route will stretch out your travel time a bit, it's perfect if you want to enjoy some coastal scenery.
- Distance: About 1,221 miles
- Time: Approximately 18 hours without factoring in any sightseeing stops
- Estimated Gas Cost: Following the same gas price assumptions, your gas expenditure could climb up to about $175.
This route will include some tolls, especially in Texas and Louisiana, potentially adding another $25 to your travel budget.
Final Thoughts
While all three routes lead you from Denver to Pass Christian, the costs and travel times vary significantly. Depending on your preferences—whether you want the quicker, more direct route or a scenic drive that allows for some fun detours—you can choose the path that fits your style and budget best.
Regardless of the route, keep mobile apps handy to help monitor gas prices along the way, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey as much as the destination! Safe travels!