Driving Cost from Durango, Colorado to Bloomfield, Iowa

A picture depicting a gas pump

Budgeting Your Getaway: The Cost of a Trip from Durango, Colorado to Bloomfield, Iowa Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip involves more than just packing your bags and hitting the open road. One crucial factor to consider is the cost of gas, especially when journeying from Durango, Colorado to Bloomfield, Iowa, a distance of approximately 600 to 700 miles. This article explores the various routes you can take, along with a breakdown of distances, estimated fuel costs, and which option offers the most economical travel experience.

Understanding Fuel Costs

Before diving into routes, let’s tackle fuel costs based on current gas prices. As of October 2023, the average gas price in the United States hovers around $3.50 per gallon. The fuel efficiency of your vehicle will significantly affect the total cost of the trip. For example, if your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon (MPG), you can estimate how much you will spend on gas for each route.

Here’s a simple formula to calculate your fuel cost:

  1. Total Distance ÷ Fuel Efficiency (MPG) = Total Gallons Needed
  2. Total Gallons Needed × Gas Price per Gallon = Total Fuel Cost

Now, let’s explore the available routes that connect Durango and Bloomfield.

Route Options

Route 1: Direct via US-550 and I-70

Distance: Approximately 674 miles
Estimated Duration: 10 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost: $94.00

This route heads northeast from Durango through US-550 before connecting to I-70. You will witness stunning mountain views and pass through towns like Montrose and Grand Junction. Given its relatively straight path, this route is shorter in terms of mileage but can be longer due to mountainous terrain that can affect your driving speed.

Calculation:

  1. Total Distance: 674 miles
  2. Fuel Efficiency: 25 MPG
  3. Total Gallons Needed: 674 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 26.96 gallons
  4. Total Fuel Cost: 26.96 gallons × $3.50 = $94.36 (rounded to $94.00)

This route offers breathtaking scenery but can attract heavy traffic during peak tourist season.

Route 2: Scenic byways via US-160 and US-287

Distance: Approximately 720 miles
Estimated Duration: 12 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost: $100.00

Alternatively, you may want to take the scenic route through US-160 before heading north via US-287. This option offers picturesque views of the San Juan Mountains and patches of beautiful forests and lakes. However, the added mileage and slower speeds due to winding roads can extend your travel time.

Calculation:

  1. Total Distance: 720 miles
  2. Fuel Efficiency: 25 MPG
  3. Total Gallons Needed: 720 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 28.8 gallons
  4. Total Fuel Cost: 28.8 gallons × $3.50 = $100.80 (rounded to $100.00)

Expect more leisurely speeds and potentially rewarding stops on this route.

Route 3: Interstate via I-25 and I-80

Distance: Approximately 640 miles
Estimated Duration: 10 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost: $88.00

This is a slightly longer route but utilizes major interstate highways, providing an uninterrupted drive with fewer stops. You’ll connect from Durango to I-25, heading north and then merging onto I-80 towards Bloomfield. This option is excellent for those who prefer a faster and smoother ride without the twists and turns of scenic byways.

Calculation:

  1. Total Distance: 640 miles
  2. Fuel Efficiency: 25 MPG
  3. Total Gallons Needed: 640 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 25.6 gallons
  4. Total Fuel Cost: 25.6 gallons × $3.50 = $89.60 (rounded to $88.00)

This route also takes you through cities like Colorado Springs and Cheyenne, adding some urban attractions along the way.

Route 4: Alternative via US-50 and I-70

Distance: Approximately 660 miles
Estimated Duration: 11 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost: $92.00

As another alternative, consider the route that branches out via US-50 and then connects to I-70. This path is slightly longer than the most direct options but offers a balance of scenic views alongside major roads. You will drive through smaller towns and experience a mix of highway and local road driving.

Calculation:

  1. Total Distance: 660 miles
  2. Fuel Efficiency: 25 MPG
  3. Total Gallons Needed: 660 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 26.4 gallons
  4. Total Fuel Cost: 26.4 gallons × $3.50 = $92.40 (rounded to $92.00)

This route allows opportunities to explore local culture in smaller communities along the way.

Best Route Recommendation

After evaluating all the routes above, the most cost-effective and efficient choice is Route 3. This path via I-25 and I-80 offers both a feasible travel time and low fuel costs. With an approximate distance of 640 miles and an estimated travel cost of $88.00 based on current gas prices, you strike a balance between savings and convenience. Additionally, it allows for the flexibility to stop in larger cities, providing meal options and rest breaks along the way.

Conclusion

Traveling from Durango, Colorado to Bloomfield, Iowa offers a unique experience filled with various landscapes, charming towns, and scenic views. Depending on the route you choose, you can expect your trip to take anywhere from 10 to 12 hours, with a fuel cost that can range from about $88.00 to $100.00. Route 3, utilizing I-25 and I-80, stands out as the best option due to its balance of distance, cost, and travel efficiency. Planning ahead can help ensure that your journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself!