The Cost of Driving from Banff, Alberta to Valparaiso, Indiana

If you're planning a road trip from Banff, Alberta to Valparaiso, Indiana, you may be wondering how much it's going to cost. Between gas prices and tolls, the expenses can add up quickly. But fear not, we've done the research for you. Here's a breakdown of the cost of driving from Banff to Valparaiso based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The most direct route

The most direct route from Banff to Valparaiso will take you through the US states of Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The total distance for this route is 2,535 miles and will take approximately 37 hours to drive.

Gas prices can vary depending on where you fill up, but as of writing this post, the average cost for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Montana is $3.20, in North Dakota is $2.86, in Minnesota is $2.74, and in Wisconsin is $2.82.

Assuming an average of 25 miles per gallon and these gas prices, the estimated cost of gas for this route is $278. Tolls for this route will cost approximately $25, bringing the estimated total cost of this route to $303.

Route 2: A more scenic route

If you want to take a more scenic route from Banff to Valparaiso, consider taking a detour through Wyoming, South Dakota, and Minnesota. This route will take you past landmarks such as Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park. The total distance for this route is 2,934 miles and will take approximately 44 hours to drive.

Gas prices for this route can be a bit higher than Route 1, with an average cost of $3.22 in Wyoming, $2.88 in South Dakota, and the same prices in Minnesota as Route 1.

Using the same assumptions as Route 1, the estimated cost of gas for this route is $325. Tolls for this route will cost approximately $35, bringing the estimated total cost of this route to $360.

Route 3: A longer but cheaper route

If you're looking to save some money on gas, but don't mind a longer drive, consider taking a route through Canada before crossing into the US at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. This route will take you past Lake Superior and through Michigan before arriving in Indiana. The total distance for this route is 3,180 miles and will take approximately 53 hours to drive.

Gas prices for this route are slightly cheaper than Routes 1 and 2, with an average cost of $1.23 CAD per liter in Alberta and British Columbia, $1.10 CAD per liter in Ontario, and $2.63 per gallon in Michigan.

Using the same assumptions as Routes 1 and 2, the estimated cost of gas for this route is $307. Tolls for this route will cost approximately $10, bringing the estimated total cost of this route to $317.

Conclusion

The cost of driving from Banff, Alberta to Valparaiso, Indiana can vary depending on the route you take and current gas prices. After considering the costs of gas and tolls, the most direct route will cost approximately $303, while the longer but cheaper route will cost approximately $317. Ultimately, the route you choose will depend on your preferences and budget. Happy travels!