Counting the Cost: A Trip from Billings to Whistler in Today's Gas Prices

If you're planning a trip from Billings, Montana to Whistler Resort Municipality in British Columbia, your greatest expense is likely to be your transportation. While there are a number of travel options to choose from, understanding the cost of each route can help you choose the best one for your budget.

Here's what you can expect to pay in gas expenses for some of the most popular travel routes between Billings and Whistler.

Route 1: Through Calgary

One of the most direct routes from Billings to Whistler is the trip through Calgary. This route takes you west on I-90 through Montana and then up Alberta Highway 2 north from the border. From Calgary, you can then travel west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and through many scenic Canadian National Parks before arriving in Whistler.

Total distance: Approximately 1100 miles Gas expense: Around $300 round-trip

Route 2: Through Spokane

If you'd like to avoid crossing the Canadian border at Calgary, you have another option: heading through Spokane, Washington. This route takes you west on I-90 through Montana and then north on US Route 93 through parts of Idaho and Montana before arriving in Washington. Once in Spokane, you can travel north on US Route 395 past Kettle Falls, through Colville National Forest, and eventually connect to Highway 1 to reach Whistler.

Total distance: Approximately 1150 miles Gas expense: Around $320 round-trip

Route 3: Through the Seattle Area

While a bit longer of a distance, one route that offers numerous possibilities and attractions is the trip through the Seattle area. This route takes you west on I-90 just like the first two options. However, once you get to the Seattle area, you can either travel north along the coast or inland through the mountains. Both routes will take you through some of the best, most scenic parts of the Pacific Northwest before arriving in Vancouver, BC. From there, you can travel up Highway 99 to Whistler.

Total distance: Approximately 1300 miles Gas expense: Around $350 round-trip

Recommendations

When you consider the longest route from Billings to Whistler, the cost of gas is just slightly higher than the other routes. However, that extra cost can come with additional attractions and fun places to visit before you get to your destination. That being said, if budget is your top priority and you want to get to Whistler in the least amount of time, Route 1 through Calgary is the option that will offer the most direct route and the lowest gas expenses.

Conclusion

Your route options are numerous when traveling between Billings, Montana and Whistler Resort Municipality in British Columbia. After weighing cost and the amount of time and distance, it is easy to see why most travelers prefer to take Route 1 through Calgary. With its stunning beauty and attractiveness, it is essential to set aside enough time when making a trip like this one. With proper preparation, you will undoubtedly marvel at the scenery and of course, have an enjoyable trip.