The Cost of a Road Trip Between Billings, Montana and Ontario, Oregon

One of the most important aspects of planning a road trip is knowing how much it will cost. This is particularly true for a trip between Billings, Montana, and Ontario, Oregon. The distance between these two cities is approximately 670 miles, and there are several routes you can take. In this article, we will explore the different routes you can take and the cost associated with each one, as well as recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-90 W and I-84 W

The first route is the shortest, at approximately 672 miles, with an estimated driving time of 10 hours and 30 minutes if you drive straight through. This route takes you through Montana, Idaho, and Oregon. The majority of the route is on I-90 W, and then you switch to I-84 W in Eastern Oregon. This route is known for its scenic beauty, with gorgeous mountain views and lush greenery along the way.

The total cost of gas for this route will depend on your vehicle's gas mileage and the price of gas. According to current gas prices, which are based on the national average, it will cost approximately $80 to fill up a 15-gallon tank with gas. So, assuming you have a fuel-efficient car with a 15-gallon tank, you will need to fill up your tank four times on this route. This gives a total estimated cost of $320 for gas.

Route 2: MT-212 W and US-26 W

The second route is slightly longer, at approximately 706 miles, but it still takes about 10 hours and 30 minutes to drive straight through. This route takes you through Montana, Wyoming, and Oregon. The majority of the route is on US-26 W, with some parts on MT-212 W and I-84 W. This route is also scenic, with mountain views and lush greenery along the way.

The total cost of gas for this route is slightly higher than Route 1, due to the slightly longer distance. Assuming you have a fuel-efficient car with a 15-gallon tank, you will need to fill up your tank five times on this route. Using the same gas prices as before, the total estimated cost of gas for this route is $400.

Route 3: I-90 W and US-395 S

The third route takes you through Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon, covering approximately 738 miles. The estimated driving time for this route is around 11 hours if you drive straight through. The majority of the route is on I-90 W, then you switch to US-395 S in Washington before switching to I-84 W in Oregon. This route is also scenic, with some parts of I-90 W and US-395 S taking you through mountainous regions.

The total cost of gas for this route is similar to Route 2, due to the slightly longer distance. Assuming you have a fuel-efficient car with a 15-gallon tank, you will need to fill up your tank five times on this route. Using the same gas prices as before, the total estimated cost of gas for this route is also $400.

Recommended Route Based on Current Gas Prices

Based on current gas prices and the length of the routes, the most cost-effective route is Route 1, which takes you through I-90 W and I-84 W. With an estimated total cost of $320 for gas, this route will save you $80 compared to Route 2 and Route 3, which both cost an estimated $400 for gas.

In addition to the cost savings, Route 1 is also the shortest and most direct route, meaning you will spend less time on the road and arrive at your destination faster. The scenic views along the route are an added bonus, making it a great option if you have the time to enjoy the view.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you're planning a road trip between Billings, Montana, and Ontario, Oregon, it's important to take into account the cost of gas as well as the length and scenic views of the routes. Based on our analysis, Route 1, which takes you through I-90 W and I-84 W, is the most cost-effective and direct route. You can expect to spend approximately $320 on gas if you have a fuel-efficient car with a 15-gallon tank. This route takes you through some stunning scenery and should take about 10 hours and 30 minutes to complete. With these factors in mind, you can plan an enjoyable and affordable road trip from Montana to Oregon.