The Cost of Driving from Denver to Salinas: A Road Trip to Remember!
Are you planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado, to Salinas, California? This exciting journey takes you through beautiful landscapes, including mountains, deserts, and coastlines. As you prepare for your adventure, it’s essential to understand how much the trip might cost based on current gas prices. Let’s dive into the details and explore different routes, distances, travel times, and the total cost of driving.
Route 1: I-70 W to I-15 S
The first route to consider is taking I-70 W to I-15 S. This is the most popular route for travelers, as it allows you to enjoy stunning mountain views along the way.
- Distance: Approximately 1,070 miles
- Time: About 15 to 16 hours of driving
- Gas Prices: Currently, the average gas price is around $3.80 per gallon. For this route, expect to use about 35 gallons of fuel. This brings your fuel cost to approximately $133.
- Tolls: There are no significant tolls on this route, making it a cost-effective option.
In summary, for this stunning and straightforward route, you can expect to spend roughly $133 on gas, with the entire trip taking around 15 to 16 hours.
Route 2: I-25 S to I-40 W
Another route to consider is taking I-25 S to I-40 W. This route is a bit longer but offers a different perspective of the Southwest.
- Distance: Around 1,100 miles
- Time: About 16 to 17 hours of driving
- Gas Prices: With the average gas price at $3.80 per gallon, you will need about 37 gallons of fuel. This results in a fuel cost close to $140.
- Tolls: Similar to the previous route, there are minimal tolls, allowing you to maximize your budget for fun stops along the way.
In a nutshell, for this scenic route, you should budget around $140 for gas, and it will take approximately 16 to 17 hours to reach your destination.
Route 3: I-25 S to I-10 W
If you’re looking for a more southern approach, you can take I-25 S to I-10 W. While this route will take you further south, it offers its own unique views and experiences.
- Distance: Approximately 1,120 miles
- Time: Roughly 17 to 18 hours of driving
- Gas Prices: Based on the current price of $3.80 per gallon, you will consume about 38 gallons of gas. This means your travel cost will hover around $144.
- Tolls: Just like the previous routes, there aren’t significant tolls, allowing for more flexibility in your budget.
Overall, for this longer southern route, expect to spend about $144 on gas and take around 17 to 18 hours of driving to reach the vibrant city of Salinas.
Conclusion
No matter which route you choose for your journey from Denver to Salinas, each offers its own set of remarkable sights and adventures. Depending on the route, your fuel costs will range from approximately $133 to $144, with driving times between 15 to 18 hours. So, pack your bags, bring your favorite snacks, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip filled with stunning landscapes and exciting memories! Safe travels!