The Cost of a Trip Between Anthem, Arizona and Saint Paul, Minnesota

When planning a road trip, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of fuel. With fluctuating gas prices, it's essential to have a clear idea of how much the journey will cost. This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the cost of a trip between Anthem, Arizona, and Saint Paul, Minnesota based on current gas prices. We will explore different possible routes, highlighting the distance and cost of each. By the end, we will recommend the best route and share our conclusion based on the trip route and duration.

Route 1: The Direct Route

The most direct route between Anthem, Arizona, and Saint Paul, Minnesota spans approximately 1,400 miles. On this route, drivers can expect to travel through six states: Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, and finally, Minnesota. The journey takes around 22 hours, depending on traffic and breaks taken.

Considering the vehicle's average fuel consumption, we must analyze the distance and current gas prices along this route. As of writing this article, the national average gas price in the United States stands at $3.14 per gallon.

Let's assume the vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon and requires four full tanks of gas for the entire trip. Each tank holds approximately 12 gallons. Therefore, the total cost for fuel would be calculated as follows:

Trip Distance: 1,400 miles Vehicle Average: 25 miles/gallon Tanks Required: 4 tanks Gas Price per Gallon: $3.14

Total cost = (Trip Distance / Vehicle Average) * Tanks Required * Gas Price per Gallon Total cost = (1,400 miles / 25 miles/gallon) * 4 tanks * $3.14 Total cost = 56 * $3.14 Total cost = $175.84

The direct route from Anthem, Arizona, to Saint Paul, Minnesota would cost approximately $175.84 in fuel expenses.

Route 2: The Eastern Loop

Another popular route for this trip is the Eastern Loop. This route takes drivers through seven states: Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, and finally, Minnesota. The Eastern Loop provides an opportunity to explore a wider range of scenery and attractions along the way. However, it also adds approximately 300 extra miles to the journey.

To calculate the cost of this route, we will use the same assumptions as the direct route:

Trip Distance: 1,700 miles (including the additional 300 miles) Vehicle Average: 25 miles/gallon Tanks Required: 4 tanks Gas Price per Gallon: $3.14

Total cost = (Trip Distance / Vehicle Average) * Tanks Required * Gas Price per Gallon Total cost = (1,700 miles / 25 miles/gallon) * 4 tanks * $3.14 Total cost = 68 * $3.14 Total cost = $213.52

The Eastern Loop, which covers approximately 1,700 miles, would cost around $213.52 in fuel expenses.

Route 3: The Northern Circle

A more scenic and lengthy option is the Northern Circle route. This route takes drivers through nine states: Arizona, Utah, Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, and New Mexico. The Northern Circle spans approximately 2,200 miles and adds several attractions and breathtaking landscapes.

Using our previous assumptions:

Trip Distance: 2,200 miles Vehicle Average: 25 miles/gallon Tanks Required: 4 tanks Gas Price per Gallon: $3.14

Total cost = (Trip Distance / Vehicle Average) * Tanks Required * Gas Price per Gallon Total cost = (2,200 miles / 25 miles/gallon) * 4 tanks * $3.14 Total cost = 88 * $3.14 Total cost = $276.32

The Northern Circle route, covering approximately 2,200 miles, would cost approximately $276.32 in total fuel expenses.

Recommended Route

Considering the cost and distance of each route, we recommend the Direct Route as the most efficient and cost-effective. With a total travel distance of 1,400 miles and a fuel cost of $175.84, it provides the shortest travel time and fewer expenses compared to the other options.

While the Eastern Loop and Northern Circle offer additional attractions and scenic beauty, they add significant mileage and expense to the trip. Those interested in exploring more diverse regions and landmarks may still consider these alternative routes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the trip between Anthem, Arizona, and Saint Paul, Minnesota can be completed in approximately 22 hours, depending on traffic and breaks taken. Considering current gas prices, the total fuel cost for a direct trip would be approximately $175.84. While alternative routes may offer varied scenery and attractions, they also add additional mileage and expenses. Ultimately, the chosen route should align with individual preferences, time constraints, and willingness to explore different regions along the journey. Safe travels!