Driving Cost from Blacksburg, Virginia to Monterey, Virginia

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Blacksburg to Monterey

If you're considering a road trip from Blacksburg to Monterey, you're in for a scenic journey through the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Before hitting the road, it's important to plan your route and budget for expenses along the way. Gas prices are constantly fluctuating, so let's take a look at the current cost of a road trip between these two Virginia towns.

Possible Routes

There are a few different routes you can take between Blacksburg and Monterey, but the most direct is via Route 220. This route takes you northeast out of Blacksburg and past Roanoke before turning northwest towards Monterey. The distance between Blacksburg and Monterey via Route 220 is approximately 80 miles.

Another option is to take Route 311 from Blacksburg to Roanoke before turning west on Route 220 towards Monterey. This route adds a few extra miles to the trip, but offers stunning views of the Allegheny Mountains. The total distance between Blacksburg and Monterey via Route 311 and 220 is approximately 95 miles.

A third option is to take Route 42 north out of Blacksburg towards Harrisonburg before turning south on Route 250 towards Monterey. This route takes you through the Shenandoah Valley and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery. The total distance between Blacksburg and Monterey via Route 42 and 250 is approximately 126 miles.

Cost of the Trip

The cost of the trip will depend on a few key factors; the price of gas, your vehicle's fuel efficiency, and any additional expenses along the way. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Virginia is $2.89 per gallon.

Using an average fuel efficiency for a mid-sized car of 25 miles per gallon, we can estimate the cost of gas for each route:

  • Route 220: 80 miles round trip / 25 mpg = 3.2 gallons x $2.89 = $9.25
  • Route 311 and 220: 95 miles round trip / 25 mpg = 3.8 gallons x $2.89 = $10.97
  • Route 42 and 250: 126 miles round trip / 25 mpg = 5.0 gallons x $2.89 = $14.45

These estimates do not take into account any additional driving you may do once you reach Monterey or any stops along the way. It's important to budget for food and drink, lodging, and any other expenses you may incur.

Recommendation

Of the three routes, Route 220 is the most direct and also the cheapest in terms of gas cost. However, if the scenery is important to you and you have the time for a longer drive, either of the other routes offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Ultimately, the choice of route will depend on your personal priorities and the amount of time and money you have available for the trip.

Conclusion

A road trip from Blacksburg to Monterey is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. By planning your route and budgeting for expenses, you can make the most of your journey. Based on current gas prices, Route 220 is the cheapest and most direct route. However, for those who have more time and want to enjoy the scenery, either Route 311 and 220 or Route 42 and 250 are great options. Regardless of the route you choose, make sure to take your time, enjoy the views, and take plenty of pictures along the way.