The Cost of Driving From Bellevue, WA to Oakhurst, CA

If you're planning a road trip from Bellevue, Washington to Oakhurst, California, you're in for an exciting adventure. The trip takes you through some of the most scenic routes in the United States, with the Pacific Northwest's lush greenery giving way to the stunning beauty of California's mountain ranges. Of course, the big question you may be asking yourself is, "How much is this going to cost me?" Let's take a look at some different routes and their associated costs.

The Most Direct Route

If you're looking for the quickest way from Bellevue to Oakhurst, you'll want to take I-5 South and then cut over to Highway 99. This route is about 820 miles, and without stops, takes around 13 hours to complete. Gas will cost you about $170 (assuming a price of $3.00 a gallon) for the trip if you're driving a car that gets around 25 miles per gallon. There are no tolls along this route.

The Scenic Route

If you're not in a rush, taking the scenic route along the coast will give you some breathtaking views. Start by taking I-5 South to Highway 101 in Olympia, and then follow the coast all the way south to California. This route is about 1,065 miles long and takes around 18 hours if you don't make any stops. In terms of cost, it will be around $220 for gas (assuming a price of $3.00 a gallon). There are no tolls along this route.

The Eastern Route

For a different kind of scenery, take the eastern route through the mountains. Start on I-90 East and take this all the way through Idaho until you reach Highway 395 in Spokane. Follow this highway south until you reach Highway 168, which will take you straight into Oakhurst. This route is about 987 miles, and without stops, it takes around 16 hours to complete. Expect to pay around $200 for gas (assuming a price of $3.00 a gallon). There are no tolls along this route.

The Verdict

So, which route is the best for your trip from Bellevue to Oakhurst? If you're in a hurry, stick with the direct route on I-5 South, which will get you there the quickest. But if you have the time, either the coastal or eastern route can provide a stunning backdrop for your journey. No matter which route you take, make sure to bring along a sense of adventure and a willingness to explore the beauty of the West Coast.