Cruising the Cost: Driving from Des Moines, WA to Beaverton, OR on a Budget
Planning a drive from Des Moines, Washington to Beaverton, Oregon? It's a beautiful journey that takes you through stunning landscapes, but it's also important to consider the costs involved. In this post, we'll break down the routes you can take, their distances, travel times, and estimated fuel expenses based on current gas prices.
Route 1: I-5 South
One of the most straightforward routes is to take Interstate 5 South. This road is well-traveled and offers plenty of amenities along the way, making it a popular choice.
- Distance: 165 miles
- Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Estimated Gas Cost: With the current average gas price around $4.00 per gallon and an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need about 6.6 gallons of gas, which totals around $26.40.
Along this route, you might encounter some scenery as you pass through towns like Tacoma and Olympia. Keep in mind that heavy traffic in the Seattle metro area can extend your travel time a bit, so plan accordingly!
Route 2: I-205 South Loop
Another option is to take I-205, which might be slightly longer but could offer a more scenic drive and fewer tolls.
- Distance: 185 miles
- Time: 3 hours
- Estimated Gas Cost: This route also requires approximately 7.4 gallons of gas, leading to a cost of about $29.60 based on current gas prices.
The I-205 route includes beautiful views of the Columbia River and will bring you through cities like Vancouver, Washington. This might be a wonderful alternative if you want to enjoy more landscapes along your journey.
Route 3: Scenic Highway 30
If you're in the mood for a more picturesque adventure, consider taking Scenic Highway 30, also known as the Historic Columbia River Highway. This route allows you to soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Columbia River Gorge.
- Distance: 200 miles
- Time: 4 hours
- Estimated Gas Cost: At 8 gallons of gas, your fuel cost would be around $32.00.
Though this route may take longer, it rewards drivers with stunning views and opportunities to stop at some great parks and lookout points. Just remember to pay attention to the road, as the winding paths can be a bit tricky!
Final Thoughts
So, whether you opt for the quick dash down I-5, the scenic I-205 loop, or the enchanting Highway 30, you now have a good idea of the expenses involved. In summary:
- I-5 South: 165 miles, 2 hours 45 minutes, $26.40
- I-205 South Loop: 185 miles, 3 hours, $29.60
- Scenic Highway 30: 200 miles, 4 hours, $32.00
Before you hop in the car, don’t forget to check the current gas prices as they can fluctuate, and keep an eye on traffic reports. Happy travels, and enjoy your drive from Des Moines to Beaverton!