The Cost of Driving from Durant, Oklahoma to Gatlinburg, Tennessee: A Gas Price Guide
Planning a road trip from Durant, Oklahoma to Gatlinburg, Tennessee can be an exciting adventure, but it's also essential to consider the costs associated with your journey. One of the most significant expenses is often fuel. In this blog post, we’ll explore a few routes you can take, along with their distances, travel times, and overall costs based on current gas prices.
Route 1: The Scenic I-40 Route
The most popular route is the scenic I-40, which offers breathtaking views along the way.
Distance: 398 miles
Estimated Time: 6 hours and 15 minutes
Gas Price: Current gas prices average around $3.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon, you'd need roughly 16 gallons for the trip.
So, the total cost for fuel would be approximately:
[ 16 \text \times 3.50 \text{ /gallon} = \textbf{$56} ]
Additionally, you won’t incur any tolls on this route, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Route 2: The I-30 and I-40 Junction
If you're looking to mix things up a bit, you might consider taking Route 2 via I-30. This route is slightly longer and takes you through Little Rock, Arkansas.
Distance: 420 miles
Estimated Time: 6 hours and 45 minutes
Gas Price: Using the same average of $3.50 per gallon and again with a vehicle that averages 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 17 gallons of gas.
The total cost will therefore be:
[ 17 \text \times 3.50 \text{ /gallon} = \textbf{$59.50} ]
Keep in mind that while this route may take you a bit longer, you can enjoy the sights of Little Rock along the way, making it a worthwhile detour.
Route 3: The I-55 Shortcut
Finally, if you're in a hurry, consider a more direct approach via I-55.
Distance: 380 miles
Estimated Time: 5 hours and 45 minutes
Gas Price: At $3.50 per gallon with the same mileage, you’ll only need about 15 gallons for the journey.
Hence, your cost for gas will be:
[ 15 \text \times 3.50 \text{ /gallon} = \textbf{$52.50} ]
This route is not only quicker but is also a great option for those who prefer not to drive too far out of their way.
Conclusion
Regardless of which route you choose, driving from Durant, Oklahoma, to Gatlinburg, Tennessee is sure to be a memorable experience. Whether you prefer the scenic views of I-40, the urban charm of I-30, or the swift passage via I-55, planning your costs ahead can ease any budget concerns. With fuel costs ranging from approximately $52.50 to $59.50 and no tolls to worry about, you're set for an adventure without breaking the bank. So buckle up, enjoy the drive, and make fantastic memories on your road trip! Safe travels!