The Cost of Driving From Bend, Oregon to Salt Lake City, Utah

Driving from Bend, Oregon to Salt Lake City, Utah can be an exciting road trip filled with beautiful sights and memorable experiences. However, before setting off on this adventure, it's crucial to be informed about the cost of the trip, especially with fluctuating gas prices. In this blog post, we will explore different routes, their distances, travel times, and the estimated costs of each route based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Scenic Highway

This route will take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes Oregon and Utah have to offer. Start by heading south on US-97, then take US-20 west towards Burns. From there, continue on OR-78 South, until you reach US-95 South, which will lead you to Salt Lake City. The total distance for this route is approximately 650 miles, and the estimated travel time is around 11 hours.

With gas prices averaging around $3 per gallon and considering an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend about $78 on gas for this journey.

Route 2: The Interstate Dash

If you prefer a more direct route with faster travel times, this option might be for you. Begin by driving south on US-97, then hop onto OR-31 East towards La Pine. Merge onto US-20 East and continue until you reach I-84 East. Take I-84 all the way to Salt Lake City. This route spans approximately 600 miles and can be completed in around 9 hours and 30 minutes.

At current gas prices, you can calculate the cost of this trip based on the average fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and with gas prices hovering around $3 per gallon, you can anticipate spending approximately $72 on fuel.

Route 3: The Mountain Passes

For the adventurous souls who appreciate mountain views, this route offers a scenic journey with some challenging stretches of road. Start by taking US-97 South, then turn onto OR-58 East towards Oakridge. Continue on this road until you reach US-97 South again, leading you to Klamath Falls. Take OR-140 East, which will merge into US-395 South, and finally, take I-80 East towards Salt Lake City. This route covers a distance of around 700 miles and is estimated to take approximately 12 hours.

Taking into account gas prices averaging $3 per gallon and an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend around $84 on gas for this trip.

Additional Considerations: Toll Prices

While gas prices form a significant part of your travel expenses, it's essential to be aware of any toll fees along the way. Fortunately, on the routes discussed above, there are no significant toll roads, making the journey even more favorable for your wallet.

Plan Your Road Trip with Confidence

By understanding the different routes and their associated costs, you can plan your road trip from Bend, Oregon to Salt Lake City, Utah with confidence. Whether you choose the scenic highway, the interstate dash, or the mountain passes, each route offers its unique charms, allowing you to tailor your journey to your preferences. So buckle up, set out on your adventure, and enjoy the delights that await you along the way!