Driving Cost from Duluth, Minnesota to Ludington, Michigan

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Duluth, Minnesota to Ludington, Michigan: A Road Trip Breakdown

Planning a road trip from Duluth, Minnesota, to Ludington, Michigan? Well, buckle up because we're diving into the costs associated with this scenic journey! With fluctuating gas prices, route options, and some tolls to consider, you want to be well-informed before hitting the open road.

Route 1: The Great Lakes Scenic Route (via US-31)

One of the most picturesque ways to travel from Duluth to Ludington is to take the Great Lakes Scenic Route. This route promises stunning views of Lake Michigan along the way.

  • Distance: Approximately 450 miles
  • Time: Roughly 7 hours
  • Gas Cost: With current gas prices averaging about $3.50 per gallon and an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need around 18 gallons of gas, which totals about $63.
  • Tolls: This route is free of tolls, making it budget-friendly.

Taking in the beauty of the lakes and small towns makes this route enjoyable, despite the longer drive time.

Route 2: The Quickest Path (via I-35 and US-10)

For those who want to get to Ludington a bit quicker, this route trades some scenery for speed. It's straightforward and mostly highway driving.

  • Distance: About 400 miles
  • Time: Approximately 6.5 hours
  • Gas Cost: Based on the same gas prices of $3.50 per gallon, you would require around 16 gallons of gas, costing you $56.
  • Tolls: Keep in mind that there are minimal tolls along this path, which should only add an extra $5 to your total cost.

This route is great if you’re eager to reach your destination while minimizing stops along the way.

Route 3: A Combination of Speed and Scenery (via US-63 and M-10)

Finally, if you’re seeking a balance between scenic views and timely arrival, consider this route that combines some backroads with highways.

  • Distance: Approximately 425 miles
  • Time: About 7 hours
  • Gas Cost: Using the same gas price of $3.50 per gallon, you’ll burn about 17 gallons, totalling around $59.50.
  • Tolls: Unfortunately, this route does include a couple of minor tolls, which could add around $8 to your overall expenses.

This option offers a little bit of everything—enjoying the sights without taking too long on the road.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of the route you choose, driving from Duluth to Ludington is sure to be an adventure filled with beautiful landscapes and charming roadside attractions. To recap, here’s a summary of the costs:

  • Great Lakes Scenic Route: 450 miles, $63 gas, $0 tolls - Total: $63
  • Quickest Path: 400 miles, $56 gas, $5 tolls - Total: $61
  • Combination Route: 425 miles, $59.50 gas, $8 tolls - Total: $67.50

Keep these figures in mind as you plan your road trip, and make sure to enjoy every mile of your journey! Safe travels!