Calculate Your Trip: The Cost of Driving from Dodge City, Kansas to Yakima, Washington Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Dodge City, Kansas, to Yakima, Washington? Well, buckle up! This journey offers beautiful landscapes and a chance to explore some amazing places. However, before you set out on this adventure, let's break down the costs associated with driving. Specifically, we’ll look at various routes, the distances you’ll be covering, the estimated travel times, and, of course, the cost of fuel based on current gas prices.
Route 1: The Direct Interstate Route
The most straightforward way to get from Dodge City to Yakima is by taking I-70 W and I-90 W.
- Distance: Approximately 1,000 miles
- Estimated Time: Around 14 hours and 30 minutes
Cost Breakdown
Current gas prices hover around $3.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle averages about 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need approximately 40 gallons of gas for this trip.
Calculating the total gas cost:
- 40 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $140
So, for this route, your total driving cost comes out to $140. Keep in mind that there are no significant tolls on this route!
Route 2: Scenic Route Through Colorado
If you’re up for a more scenic drive, consider taking the route through Colorado, which adds some miles but offers breathtaking views.
- Distance: Approximately 1,080 miles
- Estimated Time: About 15 hours and 30 minutes
Cost Breakdown
With the same gas prices at $3.50 per gallon and a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need around 43 gallons of gas.
Calculating the total gas cost:
- 43 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $150.50
Additionally, keep in mind that you may encounter a few tolls, depending on your specific route choices. Let’s estimate those to total $10.
Thus, your total for this scenic trip would be approximately $160.50.
Route 3: Northern Trail via I-80
For those adventurous souls, another option is to take I-70 W to I-80 W. This route takes you through Utah and Idaho before reaching Yakima.
- Distance: About 1,100 miles
- Estimated Time: Roughly 16 hours
Cost Breakdown
Again, at $3.50 per gallon and a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need around 44 gallons of gas.
Total gas cost:
- 44 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $154
This route may involve fees on certain stretches, estimated at about $15.
Therefore, your trip total would roughly equate to $169.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost to drive from Dodge City to Yakima varies based on your chosen route, but here’s a quick recap of your options:
- Direct Route: 1,000 miles, 14.5 hours, $140 (no major tolls).
- Scenic Route: 1,080 miles, 15.5 hours, $160.50 (around $10 in tolls).
- Northern Trail: 1,100 miles, 16 hours, $169 (approximately $15 in tolls).
Now that you have a clear understanding of the costs, you can make a more informed choice—whether you prefer the fastest route or a longer scenic journey. Safe travels, and enjoy the open road!