Driving Cost from Big Rapids, Michigan to Duluth, Minnesota

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip Between Big Rapids, MI and Duluth, MN: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

If you're planning a trip between Big Rapids, Michigan and Duluth, Minnesota, the cost of gas is likely a concern. Thankfully, gas prices are currently fairly stable, making it a great time to make the drive. But before you pack up your car and hit the road, it's important to know what to expect in terms of cost, distance, and possible routes.

Route Options and Distances

There are several potential routes to get from Big Rapids to Duluth, each with their own pros and cons in terms of cost and distance. Here are a few of the most common routes you may consider:

  1. Via US-2 W and US-141 N (569 miles): This route takes you through Wisconsin and Michigan, and it's the shortest distance from Big Rapids to Duluth, according to Google Maps. Expect to spend around 10 hours on the road and drive through cities like Ironwood, WI and Ashland, WI.

  2. Via I-94 W and I-35 N (615 miles): This route takes you through Chicago and Minneapolis, two major metropolitan areas. You'll likely encounter more traffic and urban driving than on other routes, but it's another quick trip, with a driving time of around 10.5 hours.

  3. Via I-96 W, I-196 W, and US-131 N (648 miles): This route takes you through Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo in Michigan, and it's the longest of the three primary options. However, it may be the most scenic, as you'll travel through some of the more rural areas of Michigan and have a chance to see some of the state's natural beauty.

Cost of Gas

Of course, a key factor in the cost of your road trip will be the price of gas along the way. According to GasBuddy, which tracks gas prices across the US, as of July 2021, the average cost of regular gas in Michigan is around $3.08 per gallon, while in Minnesota it is around $3.01 per gallon.

Assuming you're driving a car that gets around 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to use around 23 gallons of gas on the shortest route between Big Rapids and Duluth. That means you'll spend around $70 on gas in total, though that price could fluctuate depending on the specific gas stations you use and the time of year you're traveling.

Best Route and Why

So, which route should you choose if you're concerned with cost above all else? Option #1 - via US-2 W and US-141 N - is likely your best bet. It's the shortest distance and therefore the least expensive in terms of gas money. While all the routes will have their own scenic spots and areas of interest, this one may also offer some beautiful natural views since it goes through a lot of forest and lake areas.

That being said, it's important to note that time and convenience may be just as important to you as cost. If you're willing to spend a bit more on gas and want to see some cities along the way, Route #2 may be a better choice. Or, if you're looking for a longer, more relaxed trip, Route #3 could be the perfect fit.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Big Rapids, Michigan to Duluth, Minnesota is definitely a doable journey, and one that will likely be exciting and filled with beautiful views along the way. The cost of gas is certainly something to consider while planning your route, and overall, the shortest route via US-2 W and US-141 N is the best if you're looking to keep costs down. But no matter which route you ultimately choose, take your time, stop to see the sights, and enjoy the adventure. Happy travels!