The Cost of a Trip Between Blaine and Hopkins: Navigating Gas Prices

When planning a trip between Blaine and Hopkins in Minnesota, one of the main factors to consider is the cost of gas. Gas prices can vary greatly depending on location and time of year, so it is important to plan ahead and choose the most cost-effective route. In this article, we will explore the different routes available for this trip, highlight their cost and distance, and recommend the best one based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Taking I-35W Southbound

Distance: 26.4 miles Gas Cost: $3.50 per gallon Total Cost: $4.46

The quickest and most direct route between Blaine and Hopkins is taking I-35W Southbound. This route takes you through several cities including Minneapolis, Richfield, and Bloomington, and offers several opportunities to stop for food or gas along the way.

Assuming your vehicle gets around 25 miles per gallon, which is the average fuel economy for most cars, and gas costs around $3.50 per gallon, the estimated gas cost for this trip is $4.46. However, this does not include any tolls or parking fees you may encounter along the way.

Route 2: Taking US-169 Southbound

Distance: 32.7 miles Gas Cost: $3.50 per gallon Total Cost: $5.25

Another possible route is taking US-169 Southbound. This route takes you through several suburbs such as Champlin, Osseo, and Maple Grove, before connecting to I-494 Eastbound and eventually reaching your destination in Hopkins.

While this route is slightly longer than the first one, the estimated gas cost remains the same at $3.50 per gallon. Assuming you get 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to pay around $5.25 in gas for this trip.

Route 3: Taking MN-65 Southbound

Distance: 41.6 miles Gas Cost: $3.50 per gallon Total Cost: $6.64

Finally, you can take MN-65 Southbound, which takes you through several cities such as Ham Lake, East Bethel, and Blaine before connecting with US-10 Eastbound. From there, you can take I-694 Eastbound and eventually reach I-94 Eastbound to reach Hopkins.

This route is the longest of the three, but also offers the most scenic views as you drive through several small towns and rural areas. However, it also means spending more money on gas. Assuming you get the average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and gas costs $3.50 per gallon, you can expect to pay $6.64 in gas for this trip.

Which Route Should You Choose?

Based on the estimated gas prices and distances, it is clear that taking I-35W Southbound is the most cost-effective route to take between Blaine and Hopkins. While the other two routes offer scenic views and small-town charm, they also require more time and money to complete.

However, it is important to note that gas prices are subject to change, so it is always a good idea to research current prices before planning your trip. Additionally, traffic congestion can impact the estimated time of arrival, so be sure to consider this when planning your route as well.

Conclusion

The cost of a trip between Blaine and Hopkins largely depends on the route you choose and the current gas prices. If you are looking for the most cost-effective option, taking I-35W Southbound is the way to go. However, if you have extra time to spare and want to enjoy the scenic views of rural Minnesota, the other two routes are also great options. Regardless of which route you choose, be sure to plan ahead and check current gas prices to ensure a smooth and affordable journey.