The Costs of a Road Trip from Durant, Oklahoma to Lake Worth, Texas: An In-Depth Analysis
Taking a road trip can be an exciting adventure, but it’s essential to understand the costs associated with it. In this article, we will explore the different routes one can take from Durant, Oklahoma, to Lake Worth, Texas, and will provide you with a detailed cost analysis based on current gas prices.
Overview of the Journey
Durant, located in southeastern Oklahoma, is known for its rich history and beautiful outdoor attractions. Lake Worth, which lies just west of Fort Worth, Texas, offers charming lakeside views and recreational activities. The distance between these two destinations is approximately 100 miles, but there are different ways to approach the journey, affecting both travel time and fuel costs.
Current Fuel Prices
As of the latest data, the average gas price in Oklahoma is around $3.50 per gallon, while in Texas, it’s slightly lower at about $3.40 per gallon. For the purpose of our calculations, we'll use $3.50 as a standard average gas price since it encompasses the costs you may incur in both states.
Route Options
Route 1: Highway 69 South and I-20 West
The most straightforward route from Durant to Lake Worth is to take Highway 69 South and connect to I-20 West. This route covers approximately 105 miles and generally takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes with moderate traffic.
Cost Calculation
- Distance: 105 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: Assume an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.
- Total Gallons Needed: [ \text = \frac{105 \text}{25 \text} = 4.2 \text ]
- Total Cost: [ \text = 4.2 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 14.70 \text ]
Route 2: Highway 75 and I-20 West
Another viable option involves taking Highway 75 south before joining I-20 West. This route is approximately 110 miles long and may take about 2 hours to complete, depending on traffic conditions.
Cost Calculation
- Distance: 110 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon.
- Total Gallons Needed: [ \text = \frac{110 \text}{25 \text} = 4.4 \text ]
- Total Cost: [ \text = 4.4 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 15.40 \text ]
Route 3: U.S. Route 70
This route takes U.S. Route 70, which runs parallel to the other two routes but adds a bit more distance. You can expect this route to be about 115 miles long and approximately 2 hours to travel.
Cost Calculation
- Distance: 115 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon.
- Total Gallons Needed: [ \text = \frac{115 \text}{25 \text} = 4.6 \text ]
- Total Cost: [ \text = 4.6 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 16.10 \text ]
Route 4: A Scenic Drive via Lake Texoma
For those seeking a picturesque drive, consider taking Highway 69 south to the scenic loop around Lake Texoma. This route will add extra miles and scenic beauty, covering approximately 120 miles and taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Cost Calculation
- Distance: 120 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon.
- Total Gallons Needed: [ \text = \frac{120 \text}{25 \text} = 4.8 \text ]
- Total Cost: [ \text = 4.8 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 16.80 \text ]
Route Comparison
Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Travel Time | Total Gas Cost ($) |
---|---|---|---|
Highway 69 South & I-20 West | 105 | 1 hr 45 mins | 14.70 |
Highway 75 & I-20 West | 110 | 2 hrs | 15.40 |
U.S. Route 70 | 115 | 2 hrs | 16.10 |
Highway 69 to Lake Texoma | 120 | 2 hrs 15 mins | 16.80 |
Recommended Route
The best route for cost efficiency and travel time is the first route: Highway 69 South and I-20 West. This option gives you the shortest distance and lowest fuel cost, making it an economical choice for your trip.
Conclusion
Traveling from Durant, Oklahoma, to Lake Worth, Texas, offers a variety of routes that each come with different costs and travel times. The most efficient choice, Highway 69 South and I-20 West, covers about 105 miles and costs around $14.70 in gas, taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. For those looking for scenic views, alternative routes are available, but they will add both distance and cost. A careful consideration of your priorities—whether they are cost, time, or scenery—will make for a gratifying road trip.