Driving Cost from Benton, Arkansas to Great Falls, Montana

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Benton, Arkansas to Great Falls, Montana

Are you planning a road trip from Benton, Arkansas to Great Falls, Montana? Do you want to know how much it would cost you in terms of gas prices? Look no further than this article, where we will break down the cost of the trip based on current gas prices and the various routes you can take.

Routes

There are different routes you can take to travel from Benton, Arkansas to Great Falls, Montana. Here are some of the most popular routes:

Route 1: I-40 W and I-25 N

This is the shortest and most direct route to Great Falls, Montana. It passes through major cities like Oklahoma City, Amarillo, Denver, and Cheyenne. The total distance of this route is 1,397 miles, and it takes approximately 22 hours to complete.

Route 2: I-40 W, I-25 N, and US-191 N

This is another popular route that passes through Yellowstone National Park. It allows you to see some iconic scenery while on the road, such as The Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful geyser. The total distance of this route is 1,609 miles, and it takes approximately 26 hours to complete.

Route 3: I-40 W, I-25 N, and US-212 W

This is a scenic route that takes you through the Black Hills National Forest and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. It offers breathtaking views of some of the most iconic and historic landmarks in the United States. The total distance of this route is 1,729 miles, and it takes approximately 27 hours to complete.

Gas Prices

Gas prices vary from state to state and even from city to city. The current national average for gas prices is $2.87 per gallon. To calculate the total cost of your trip, you need to know your vehicle's gas mileage and the length of your journey.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average fuel cost is $0.13 per mile for a small car, $0.16 per mile for a midsize car, and $0.20 per mile for a large car. Assuming you have a midsize car with a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, let's break down the total cost of the trip based on gas prices:

  • Route 1: 1,397 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 55.88 gallons * $2.87 per gallon = $160.88
  • Route 2: 1,609 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 64.36 gallons * $2.87 per gallon = $184.59
  • Route 3: 1,729 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 69.16 gallons * $2.87 per gallon = $198.28

As you can see, the cost of gas increases as the distance of the trip increases. You need to factor in other expenses, such as food, accommodations, and entertainment, into your budget.

Best Route

The best route depends on your preferences and goals. If you want to arrive at your destination as quickly as possible, then Route 1 is the best option. It is the shortest and most direct route to Great Falls, Montana, and you can save money on gas.

However, if you want to make your road trip more memorable, then Route 2 or Route 3 is the best option. These routes take you through some of the most beautiful and historic landmarks in the United States. You can enjoy some of the breathtaking views and make your journey more enjoyable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a road trip from Benton, Arkansas to Great Falls, Montana, depends on the route you take and the current gas prices. Route 1 is the shortest and cheapest route, while Route 2 and Route 3 offer more memorable experiences. Regardless of the route you choose, plan ahead and budget accordingly so that you can have a successful trip. Safe travels!