Driving Cost from Dillsburg, Pennsylvania to Altoona, Pennsylvania

A picture depicting a gas pump

Cost of a Trip from Dillsburg to Altoona: Navigating Gas Prices and Route Choices

Planning a road trip between Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, and Altoona, Pennsylvania, involves more than just packing your bags and hitting the road. With current gas prices fluctuating, understanding the cost of your journey becomes essential. In this article, we will explore various routes, their respective costs, and distances, allowing you to make an informed decision.

Understanding Gas Prices

To effectively calculate the cost of gas for your trip, you need to consider the current price per gallon of gasoline. As of October 2023, the average gas price in Pennsylvania is approximately $3.50 per gallon. This figure can vary depending on specific locations and market conditions, so always check your local gas station for the latest prices before embarking on your journey.

Gas Consumption Calculation

Next, calculate the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. For example, if your car averages about 25 miles per gallon (mpg), you can compute your overall gas costs for the trip. With this information at hand, we'll explore the routes and corresponding costs.

Route Options

Route 1: Via US-15 N and I-99 N

  • Distance: Approximately 113 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours, 15 minutes
  • Route Overview: Starting in Dillsburg, take US-15 N to I-99 N, then follow I-99 N to reach Altoona.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total miles: 113 miles
  2. Fuel efficiency: 25 mpg
  3. Total gallons needed: 113 miles / 25 mpg = 4.52 gallons
  4. Total gas cost: 4.52 gallons * $3.50 per gallon = $15.82

Route 2: Via US-30 W and I-99 N

  • Distance: Approximately 122 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
  • Route Overview: Begin by heading west on US-30 before merging onto I-99 N for the remainder of the trip to Altoona.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total miles: 122 miles
  2. Fuel efficiency: 25 mpg
  3. Total gallons needed: 122 miles / 25 mpg = 4.88 gallons
  4. Total gas cost: 4.88 gallons * $3.50 per gallon = $17.08

Route 3: Via I-76 W and I-99 N

  • Distance: Approximately 135 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours, 45 minutes
  • Route Overview: This route takes you on I-76 W, which can be scenic but extends the travel distance overall before connecting to I-99 N.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total miles: 135 miles
  2. Fuel efficiency: 25 mpg
  3. Total gallons needed: 135 miles / 25 mpg = 5.4 gallons
  4. Total gas cost: 5.4 gallons * $3.50 per gallon = $18.90

Summary of Routes and Costs

Route Distance (miles) Estimated Driving Time Gas Cost ($)
Via US-15 N and I-99 N 113 2 hours, 15 minutes $15.82
Via US-30 W and I-99 N 122 2 hours, 30 minutes $17.08
Via I-76 W and I-99 N 135 2 hours, 45 minutes $18.90

Among these options, taking the route via US-15 N and I-99 N offers the best balance of distance and cost. At 113 miles, this route is the shortest, taking approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, and costs approximately $15.82 in gas.

Scenic Considerations

As you journey along the chosen route, enjoy the picturesque landscapes that central Pennsylvania offers. Rolling hills, quaint towns, and vibrant fall foliage (if traveling in autumn) can enhance your travel experience. This scenic drive allows for a refreshing change from the bustling city life of Dillsburg.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip from Dillsburg to Altoona provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy both the journey and the destination. The recommended route via US-15 N and I-99 N covers approximately 113 miles and takes an estimated 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it both time-efficient and economical with gas costs around $15.82. Be sure to factor in your vehicle's MPG, current gas prices, and traffic conditions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable drive.