Driving Cost from Detroit, Michigan to Washington, Utah

A picture depicting a gas pump

Calculating the Cost of a Road Trip from Detroit, Michigan to Washington, Utah Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Detroit, Michigan, to Washington, Utah, involves more than just packing your bags and hitting the road. The journey covers approximately 1,500 miles and leads through various landscapes and terrains, making route selection vital. This article discusses the potential routes, estimated costs based on current gas prices, and recommends the best path for your trip.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the routes, let's take a moment to assess the current gas prices. As of October 2023, the national average price for regular gasoline hovers around $3.50 per gallon. This price can fluctuate based on the specific areas through which you'll be traveling, but for this calculation, we'll use the national average.

Estimated MPG of Your Vehicle

Understanding your vehicle's fuel efficiency, measured in miles per gallon (MPG), is crucial for estimating costs. The average fuel economy in the U.S. is around 25 MPG for combined city and highway driving. If your vehicle has better or worse MPG ratings, feel free to adjust the calculations accordingly.

Route Options

When planning your trip from Detroit to Washington, Utah, consider three main routing options:

Route 1: I-70 W and I-15 S

Distance: 1,509 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 22 hours
Cost: $210

This route takes you on I-70 W, where stunning vistas unfold as you traverse through places like Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri. As you cross into Kansas, landscapes of rolling hills greet you. Upon entering Colorado, the majestic Rocky Mountains present a backdrop that's hard to beat. Transitioning onto I-15 S leads you through the scenic landscapes of Utah before reaching Washington.

  • Fuel Calculation:
    • Total miles: 1,509
    • Gallons needed: 1,509 miles / 25 MPG = 60.36 gallons
    • Total cost: 60.36 gallons x $3.50 per gallon = $211.26

This route is highly recommended for those who enjoy breathtaking mountain views during their journey.

Route 2: I-80 W

Distance: 1,548 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 23 hours
Cost: $215

Route 2 takes you on I-80 W, leading you through Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and finally into Utah. The landscape is more varied, and you get a taste of the Midwest prairies before entering the Rocky Mountains.

  • Fuel Calculation:
    • Total miles: 1,548
    • Gallons needed: 1,548 miles / 25 MPG = 61.92 gallons
    • Total cost: 61.92 gallons x $3.50 per gallon = $216.72

While this route offers a delightful variety of scenery, it does not provide the stunning mountains you encounter on the first route.

Route 3: I-90 W and I-15 S

Distance: 1,586 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 24 hours
Cost: $223

The third option takes a northern approach via I-90 W before connecting to I-15 S. This route navigates through Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and across parts of the Midwest before heading south into Utah.

  • Fuel Calculation:
    • Total miles: 1,586
    • Gallons needed: 1,586 miles / 25 MPG = 63.44 gallons
    • Total cost: 63.44 gallons x $3.50 per gallon = $221.04

This route, while longer and more time-consuming, has its own unique charm. However, for those looking for efficiency, it isn't recommended.

Based on the analysis above, the I-70 W and I-15 S route emerges as the most favorable option for your road trip from Detroit to Washington, Utah. With a distance of approximately 1,509 miles, an estimated travel time of 22 hours, and an average cost of about $210, it optimizes both the financial and experiential aspects of your trip.

Tips for Managing Trip Costs

  1. Plan for Stops: While maps might indicate a direct route, plan for food and rest stops. Take advantage of these breaks to refuel your vehicle and yourself.

  2. Fuel Up Wisely: Monitor gas prices along your route. Use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest stations.

  3. Check Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in top shape before leaving. A well-tuned vehicle can improve fuel efficiency significantly.

  4. Travel Off-Peak: Consider starting your trip early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid traffic jams, which can add to fuel costs.

  5. Pack Snacks and Drinks: This can save you money compared to stopping at convenience stores or fast food restaurants along the way.

Conclusion

The journey from Detroit, Michigan, to Washington, Utah, via the I-70 W and I-15 S route provides an excellent balance of scenery, cost, and travel time. Covering around 1,509 miles in approximately 22 hours, this road trip proves to be both manageable and enjoyable. With current gas prices, you can anticipate spending around $210 on fuel, making it a reasonable adventure for those looking to explore the beauty of America’s landscapes. Pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the adventure!