Analyzing the Cost of a Trip from Des Moines, Iowa to Washington, Iowa Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling within Iowa presents an opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes and charming towns of the Midwest. If you’re planning a trip from Des Moines to Washington, you may want to consider the cost associated with the journey. In this article, we’ll evaluate the different routes you can take, highlight their distances and costs based on current gas prices, and ultimately recommend the best option for your travels.

Overview of the Trip

Des Moines, the state capital, boasts a rich cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant parks. Conversely, Washington, a quaint town in the southeast corner of Iowa, charms visitors with its historic downtown and community events. The distance between these two destinations ranges from approximately 120 to 150 miles, depending on the route taken. Current gas prices in Iowa hover around $3.50 per gallon, providing a benchmark for calculating fuel costs.

Route Options

When planning the drive from Des Moines to Washington, travelers can choose from three primary routes. Each route offers its own mix of distance, travel time, and scenery.

Route 1: Via I-80 E

Distance: Approximately 130 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Cost: $22.75

Route 1 takes you southeast from Des Moines along I-80 E. This route is relatively straightforward and one of the quickest options available. Starting from Des Moines, you'll travel through the suburbs before merging onto I-80 E. The highway leads directly into Iowa City, a vibrant college town, before shifting onto US-218 S toward Washington.

Cost Calculation:

Assume an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.
Total gallons needed: 130 miles / 25 mpg = 5.2 gallons
Total cost: 5.2 gallons * $3.50 = $18.20

Add in some miscellaneous expenses like tolls or snacks at rest stops, bringing the estimated total cost for this route close to $22.75.

Route 2: Via US-163 E

Distance: Approximately 125 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours
Cost: $21.00

Route 2 utilizes US-163 E, which offers a slightly shorter but slower drive. You'll leave Des Moines traveling east on US-163 through small towns and pastoral landscapes. This route intersects with I-80, where you will then merge toward Washington via US-218 S.

Cost Calculation:

Total gallons needed: 125 miles / 25 mpg = 5.0 gallons
Total cost: 5 gallons * $3.50 = $17.50

At an estimated $21.00, this option equates fuel costs with minor expenses for refreshments.

Route 3: Via US-6 E

Distance: Approximately 140 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Cost: $24.50

Route 3 takes a longer detour via US-6 E. Starting from Des Moines, you head east on US-6, eventually connecting with US-34 E, and then pivoting south on US-218. While this route provides some scenic views, it's more circuitous, making it the longest option.

Cost Calculation:

Total gallons needed: 140 miles / 25 mpg = 5.6 gallons
Total cost: 5.6 gallons * $3.50 = $19.60

Adding in expected expenses such as food stops or small detours can push the estimated overall costs to around $24.50.

Recommendation

Considering the overall travel cost, time, and distance, Route 1 (I-80 E) is the most efficient option for a road trip from Des Moines to Washington. Not only does it offer a balance between speed and affordability, but it also allows travelers to experience some of the state's notable sites in a convenient manner. The travel time is less than two hours, making it practical for a day trip or a weekend venture.

Conclusion

The journey from Des Moines to Washington, Iowa, proves to be a straightforward endeavor with needs that revolve around transportation costs. Opting for the most efficient route, the drive via I-80 E totals approximately 130 miles and takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes, costing roughly $22.75 at current gas prices. Whether you’re exploring the buzz of Des Moines or the quaint charm of Washington, the road offers ample opportunity for enjoyable experiences along the way. Happy travels!