Cost of a Trip from Dighton to Scott City: Navigating Kansas on a Budget
Traveling from Dighton to Scott City, Kansas, offers a glimpse into the heart of the American Midwest. While the drive spans less than 40 miles, the costs associated with the journey vary depending on your route, fuel economy, and current gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different routes you can take, estimate the cost of gas, and highlight the most economical choice for your trip.
Understanding Current Gas Prices
Before diving into the specifics of the routes, let’s assess the prevailing gas prices. As of October 2023, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Kansas hovers around $3.30. However, prices can fluctuate based on local factors and specific gas stations. For our calculations, we will utilize this average to estimate fuel costs for the trip.
Route Options
Route 1: US-400 E and US-83 N
The first route from Dighton to Scott City is via US-400 E and US-83 N. This path covers approximately 35 miles and usually takes about 40 minutes to drive, depending on traffic conditions.
- Distance: 35 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 40 minutes
To calculate fuel costs, we’ll assume a vehicle that gets an average of 25 miles per gallon (mpg). Therefore, the fuel requirement for this trip is:
[ \text = \frac{\text}{\text} = \frac{35}{25} = 1.4 \text ]
Now, multiplying the gallons needed by the cost of gas gives:
[ \text = \text \times \text = 1.4 \times 3.30 \approx 4.62 ]
So, the total cost of fuel for this route is approximately $4.62.
Route 2: KS-27 N to US-50 W
Route two takes you north on KS-27 to US-50 W before hooking back to Scott City. This route measures about 38 miles and requires an estimated driving time of around 50 minutes.
- Distance: 38 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 50 minutes
Let’s do a similar fuel calculation:
[ \text = \frac{38}{25} = 1.52 \text ]
The cost of this route would then be calculated as follows:
[ \text = 1.52 \times 3.30 \approx 5.02 ]
Thus, fuel costs for this route come to about $5.02.
Route 3: A Scenic Route via County Roads
For those looking to enjoy Kansas' scenic landscape, an alternative way is to take local county roads. This route is somewhat longer, spanning around 40 miles. The estimated driving time is about 55 minutes due to potential lower speed limits and winding roads.
- Distance: 40 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 55 minutes
Using the same mpg calculation:
[ \text = \frac{40}{25} = 1.6 \text ]
The cost would be:
[ \text = 1.6 \times 3.30 \approx 5.28 ]
Thus, fuel costs for this scenic route are approximately $5.28.
Summary of Costs and Routes
| Route Description | Distance | Estimated Time | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| US-400 E and US-83 N | 35 miles | 40 minutes | $4.62 |
| KS-27 N to US-50 W | 38 miles | 50 minutes | $5.02 |
| Scenic Route via County Roads | 40 miles | 55 minutes | $5.28 |
Recommendation: The Best Route
Based on the cost and travel time analysis, the best route to take from Dighton to Scott City is Route 1: US-400 E and US-83 N. This route not only minimizes gas expenses at approximately $4.62 but also offers a relatively quick travel time of about 40 minutes. Additionally, this road is well-maintained and offers a straightforward drive that enhances your overall travel experience, making it the most sensible choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Conclusion
The journey from Dighton to Scott City is a leisurely drive through the beautiful landscapes of Kansas, taking about 40 minutes if you choose the optimal route. By sticking to US-400 E and US-83 N, you’ll maximize your time and minimize costs, with only around $4.62 spent on fuel. This short trip presents not only an economical option but also a convenient way to explore this charming part of Kansas. Don’t forget to enjoy the sights along the way!