Driving Cost from Bainbridge Island, Washington to Ellensburg, Washington

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Cost of a Trip Between Bainbridge Island, Washington and Ellensburg, Washington

Introduction

When planning a trip between Bainbridge Island and Ellensburg, Washington, there are several factors to consider, and one of the most important is the cost of the journey. With fluctuating gas prices, it's crucial to evaluate the different possible routes and their associated expenses. In this article, we will explore the various routes between these two destinations, highlighting the cost and distance of each option. By the end, you will have a recommended route that provides the most cost-effective solution for your trip.

Route Options

  1. Route via I-90 East

    The most direct route from Bainbridge Island to Ellensburg is via I-90 East. Starting from Bainbridge Island, you will first need to take the ferry across Puget Sound to Seattle. Once in the city, follow the signs to join I-5 South. After approximately 30 miles, merge onto I-90 East towards Bellevue. Continue on I-90 East for about 90 miles until you reach Ellensburg. This route offers a seamless highway drive with excellent road conditions.

    • Distance: The total distance between Bainbridge Island and Ellensburg via this route is approximately 132 miles.

    • Estimated Cost: Considering the average gas mileage of most vehicles, which is around 25 miles per gallon, and current gas prices per gallon, we can estimate the cost of this journey. Assuming a price of $3.50 per gallon, you will need about 5.3 gallons of gasoline, resulting in a total cost of around $18.55 for a one-way trip.

  2. Route via I-5 South and US-97 Loop

    Another option to reach Ellensburg from Bainbridge Island is to take a route that includes I-5 South and the US-97 Loop. Similar to the previous route, you will start by taking the ferry to Seattle from Bainbridge Island. After reaching Seattle, follow the signs to join I-5 South. Drive approximately 85 miles on I-5 South until you reach the exit for US-97 towards Yakima. Take the US-97 South route, which eventually loops back towards Ellensburg.

    • Distance: The total distance for this route is approximately 148 miles, slightly longer than the direct route via I-90 East.

    • Estimated Cost: Using the same assumptions for gas mileage and fuel prices, this route will require approximately 5.9 gallons of gasoline, resulting in a total cost of around $20.65 for a one-way trip.

  3. Route via US-2 East and US-97 South

    If you prefer to take a more scenic route, you can opt for a journey that includes US-2 East and US-97 South. Start by taking the ferry from Bainbridge Island to Seattle, just like the previous routes. From Seattle, instead of hopping onto the interstate, join US-2 East towards Wenatchee. Continue on US-2 East for approximately 55 miles until you reach the US-97 South junction. Take the exit and head towards US-97 South, which will lead you directly to Ellensburg.

    • Distance: This route comprises a total distance of approximately 154 miles, slightly longer than the previous alternative.

    • Estimated Cost: With the same fuel assumptions, the estimated cost for this route will be around $21.45 for a one-way trip.

Based on the cost calculations, it is evident that the direct route via I-90 East is the most cost-effective option for traveling between Bainbridge Island and Ellensburg. Despite being the shortest route, it offers a seamless highway drive, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey. Additionally, with a distance of 132 miles, this route saves both time and money compared to the longer alternatives. Therefore, we recommend taking the I-90 East route for a cost-effective trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the trip between Bainbridge Island and Ellensburg can be accomplished using multiple routes, each with its own cost and distance considerations. However, after evaluating the options, it is clear that taking the direct route via I-90 East is the most cost-effective choice. The estimated cost for a one-way trip along this route is approximately $18.55, assuming average fuel consumption and current gas prices. With a total distance of around 132 miles, this route allows for an efficient and affordable journey, ensuring your travel budget remains intact. Bon voyage!