Driving Cost from Durand, Michigan to Manchester, Michigan

A picture depicting a gas pump

Cost of a Trip from Durand to Manchester, Michigan: A Comprehensive Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Durand to Manchester, Michigan? Understanding the costs involved can help you budget effectively and make the most of your time on the road. This article will explore the different routes between these two locations, calculate costs based on current gas prices, and recommend the most efficient option for your journey.

Overview of the Trip

Durand and Manchester are separated by approximately 65 miles. Travelers can choose from multiple routes, each varying in distance, travel time, and gas expenditure. The current average gas price in Michigan stands around $3.50 per gallon. With this price in mind, let’s delve into the various routes available and their associated costs.

Possible Routes

Route 1: I-69 and I-94

Distance: 65 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Estimated Gas Cost: $8.50

The most straightforward route takes you on the I-69 south from Durand, merging onto I-94. This route offers an easy drive with minimal traffic, making it a popular choice for many travelers. Here’s a quick breakdown of the trip:

  1. Depart Durand and take I-69 south.
  2. Merge onto I-94 West toward Detroit.
  3. Exit at State Road to reach Manchester.

This route provides scenic views of the Michigan countryside while ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Route 2: M-21 and M-52

Distance: 70 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Estimated Gas Cost: $9.00

An alternative pathway involves taking M-21 and M-52 south. This route is slightly longer but offers a glimpse of local attractions and lesser-known landscapes:

  1. Start in Durand and proceed on M-21.
  2. Continue until you merge onto M-52 south.
  3. Follow M-52 to your destination in Manchester.

While this route takes an additional 15 minutes, it might be worth it for those looking to explore smaller towns along the way. It features a mix of farmland and wooded areas, making for a picturesque journey.

Route 3: US-127 South

Distance: 75 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Estimated Gas Cost: $9.50

For the adventurous traveler, US-127 south offers a longer yet captivating route. This option caters to those seeking a leisurely drive through the heart of Michigan:

  1. Depart from Durand and head west on M-71.
  2. Merge onto US-127 South.
  3. Follow US-127 until you reach I-94, then head east to Manchester.

This route provides stunning views of both rural landscapes and small towns, making it a delightful experience despite the additional time and cost.

Cost Calculation

To better understand the overall cost of taking different routes, let’s break down the fuel costs based on a vehicle’s average fuel efficiency. For this calculation, we will consider a car that averages 25 miles per gallon.

  1. Route 1: I-69 and I-94

    • Total Distance: 65 miles
    • Gallons Consumed: 65 miles / 25 MPG = 2.6 gallons
    • Total Gas Cost: 2.6 gallons x $3.50 = $9.10

  2. Route 2: M-21 and M-52

    • Total Distance: 70 miles
    • Gallons Consumed: 70 miles / 25 MPG = 2.8 gallons
    • Total Gas Cost: 2.8 gallons x $3.50 = $9.80

  3. Route 3: US-127 South

    • Total Distance: 75 miles
    • Gallons Consumed: 75 miles / 25 MPG = 3.0 gallons
    • Total Gas Cost: 3.0 gallons x $3.50 = $10.50

Summary of Costs

Route Distance (miles) Time (hours) Gas Cost ($)
I-69 and I-94 65 1.25 9.10
M-21 and M-52 70 1.5 9.80
US-127 South 75 1.75 10.50

Recommendations

Based on both cost and travel time, the recommended route from Durand to Manchester is the I-69 and I-94 pathway. This route minimizes your expenses without sacrificing travel time. For families or individuals wanting a swift and economical trip while enjoying the lovely rural Michigan scenery, I-69 and I-94 is an optimal choice.

For those interested in local sights or leisurely driving, the M-21 and M-52 route presents a compelling option, albeit with slightly higher costs and longer durations. Finally, the US-127 south route offers a picturesque drive but should be reserved for those looking to explore at a slower pace.

Conclusion

Overall, the trip from Durand to Manchester provides a range of scenic routes that cater to different preferences and needs. The I-69 and I-94 route stands out as the quickest and most economical choice, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. Travelers can look forward to a pleasant journey filled with the charm of Michigan’s landscapes, making it a memorable experience worthy of exploration. Plan your trip carefully, and enjoy the road ahead!