The Cost of a Trip between Badger, Iowa and Cañon City, Colorado: A Detailed Breakdown based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a trip between Badger, Iowa, and Cañon City, Colorado, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of transportation. With the fluctuating gas prices, choosing the most cost-effective route can make a significant difference in your travel expenses. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, highlight their costs and distances, and recommend the best options for an economical journey.

Possible Routes

Route 1: The Direct Route

The most straightforward option is to take the direct route from Badger, Iowa, to Cañon City, Colorado. This route spans approximately 900 miles and offers a convenient way to reach your destination. However, it's crucial to consider the cost of gas for such a long journey.

Based on recent gas prices, the average cost per gallon in the Midwest region is $2.85. Assuming your vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you will require around 36 gallons of gas for the direct route. Consequently, the estimated cost of gas for this section of your journey would be approximately $102.6.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you have some extra time and want to enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way, you might consider taking a slightly longer route through the Rocky Mountains. In this scenic route, you would travel from Badger, Iowa, to Denver, Colorado, before heading south to Cañon City. While taking this detour adds approximately 150 miles to your journey, the experience and scenery might make it well worthwhile.

To estimate the cost for this route, we need to consider the gas prices in the respective regions. In the Midwest, the average price per gallon is $2.85, while in the Rocky Mountain region, it stands at $3.10. Considering the extra 150 miles and your vehicle's average fuel efficiency, you would require about 39 gallons of gas. Consequently, the estimated cost of gas for this section would be roughly $120.9.

Route 3: The Efficient Route

For those seeking the most fuel-efficient route, an alternative to consider is traveling from Badger, Iowa, to Kansas City, Missouri, and then taking a more southern path through Oklahoma before reaching Colorado. While this route may add a few extra miles, it can potentially help you save on gas costs.

Considering the gas prices in the Midwest and the Southern Plains region, which is approximately $2.85 and $2.75 per gallon, respectively, and the additional distance, the estimated cost of gas for this journey would be around $115.2. Although it is slightly more than the direct route, the difference is marginal compared to the potential savings on gas expenses.

Recommended Route

After careful consideration of the different routes and their associated costs, we recommend taking the efficient route through Kansas City, Missouri, and then heading south through Oklahoma. Not only does this route offer a viable option to reduce your gas expenses, but it also provides an opportunity to explore different states on your journey.

The cost of gas is a significant factor for budget-conscious travelers, and by choosing the most cost-effective route, you can save considerably on transportation expenses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when traveling from Badger, Iowa, to Cañon City, Colorado, it is essential to factor in the cost of gas along with the distance covered. By opting for the efficient route via Kansas City, Missouri, and then heading south through Oklahoma, you can strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and a shorter travel time. With an estimated journey of around 900 miles, and taking into account recent gas prices, the total cost of gas for this trip would be roughly $115.2. Plan your route wisely, consider your budget, and enjoy your journey while keeping your transportation expenses in check.