Driving Cost from Ashland, Nebraska to Des Moines, Iowa

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The Cost of a Trip between Ashland, Nebraska and Des Moines, Iowa

Introduction

Traveling from Ashland, Nebraska to Des Moines, Iowa is a delightful journey through the heartland of the United States. Whether you're planning a road trip for leisure or need to commute between these two cities, it's essential to consider the cost of the trip, particularly with fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we'll explore various routes from Ashland to Des Moines, highlighting the distance and cost associated with each option. By the end, we'll recommend the best route for your convenience and budget.

Route Options

Route 1: I-80 W and I-235 E (Approximate Distance: 195 miles)

Taking the traditional route of Interstate 80 West followed by Interstate 235 East is a popular way to travel from Ashland, Nebraska to Des Moines, Iowa. This relatively direct path offers plenty of amenities along the way, making it an excellent choice for those seeking convenience.

Based on the current average gas price of $2.85 per gallon, a standard vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon will require around 7.8 gallons of gas for this route. Consequently, the total fuel cost for this journey would be approximately $22.23.

Route 2: US-6 W and IA-44 W (Approximate Distance: 225 miles)

An alternative route from Ashland to Des Moines is to take US-6 West followed by IA-44 West. While this route adds some extra mileage to your trip, it offers scenic views of the countryside and the opportunity to explore smaller towns along the way.

Considering the same gas price and vehicle efficiency as before, this route would require around 9 gallons of gas, resulting in a total fuel cost of approximately $25.65.

Route 3: IA-63 S and I-80 E (Approximate Distance: 213 miles)

For those looking to explore even more of the region, taking IA-63 South followed by I-80 East offers an alternative path from Ashland to Des Moines. This route avoids major highways for a while before connecting to I-80, providing a slightly different experience from the previously mentioned routes.

With the same fuel efficiency and gas prices, this route would require approximately 8.5 gallons of gas, amounting to a fuel cost of around $24.23.

After considering the distance, cost, and overall convenience, the recommended route from Ashland, Nebraska to Des Moines, Iowa is Route 1: I-80 W and I-235 E. This route offers a direct path, ensuring a faster travel time. Additionally, the availability of amenities along the way adds to the convenience of this highway-based journey.

While Route 2 and Route 3 may provide unique experiences and a chance to explore the region, they also add a significant amount of mileage to the trip. Therefore, for those who prioritize efficiency and cost-effectiveness, Route 1 is the best choice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling between Ashland, Nebraska, and Des Moines, Iowa is an enjoyable journey with multiple route options to consider. After examining the various routes available, we recommend taking Route 1: I-80 W and I-235 E for its direct path, convenience, and relative fuel efficiency.

Keep in mind that the duration of the trip will depend not only on the route chosen but also on factors such as traffic and individual driving habits. On average, this route can take around 3 to 4 hours to complete, assuming moderate traffic conditions.

Regardless of the route you choose, be sure to check for road closures or construction updates to ensure a smooth and pleasant traveling experience. Happy travels!