Taking a Road Trip from Bloomington, Minnesota to Eau Claire, Wisconsin: The Cost of Gas and Possible Routes

When planning a road trip, knowing the estimated cost of gas is essential. Gas prices can vary depending on where you are traveling, making it difficult to estimate the cost. This article will focus on the cost of a trip from Bloomington, Minnesota, to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and the different possible routes to take while considering the cost.

Route 1: I-94 W

The most common and direct route from Bloomington, Minnesota, to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is via Interstate 94 West. The distance from Bloomington to Eau Claire via this route is approximately 112 miles, which typically takes around two hours to cover.

The cost of this trip depends on the gas prices at the time of travel. Based on the current average gas price of $3.16 per gallon, and calculating an average of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) for highway driving, the estimated cost of gas for this trip would be $13.47 for a one-way trip. Therefore, the total cost of gas for a round trip would be approximately $26.94.

Route 2: US-52 S and I-90 W

Another route to consider is taking US-52 S and I-90 W to Eau Claire, Wisconsin. This route covers approximately 128 miles and takes approximately two and a half hours to reach Eau Claire.

The estimated cost of gas for this route would depend on the gas prices at the time of travel, and the car's mpg. Based on the current average gas price of $3.16 per gallon and assuming an average of 25 mpg for highway driving, the cost of gas for a one-way trip would be approximately $14.89. Therefore, the total cost of gas for a round trip would be approximately $29.78.

Route 3: State Highway 63 S

Another possible route to consider is taking State Highway 63 S from Bloomington, Minnesota, to Eau Claire, Wisconsin. This route covers approximately 125 miles and typically takes two and a half hours to complete.

The estimated cost of gas for this route would depend on the gas prices at the time of travel and the car's mpg. Based on the current average gas price of $3.16 per gallon and assuming an average of 25 mpg for highway driving, the cost of gas for a one-way trip would be approximately $13.92. Therefore, the total cost of gas for a round trip would be approximately $27.84.

Route 4: State Highway 169 S

Another alternative route to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is taking State Highway 169 S from Bloomington, Minnesota. This route covers approximately 140 miles and typically takes around three hours to reach Eau Claire.

The estimated cost of gas for this route would depend on the gas prices at the time of travel and the car's mpg. Based on the current average gas price of $3.16 per gallon and assuming an average of 25 mpg for highway driving, the cost of gas for a one-way trip would be approximately $16.66. Therefore, the total cost of gas for a round trip would be approximately $33.32.

Recommended Route

Based on the distance, driving time, and the cost of gas, the recommended route for a road trip from Bloomington, Minnesota to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is via Interstate 94 West. This route offers direct access to Eau Claire, saves on driving time, and is significantly less costly than the other routes.

Conclusion

Planning a road trip involves not only the destination but also the traveling expenses. From Bloomington, Minnesota, to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, taking Interstate 94 West is the most advisable route, based on distance, driving time, and gas cost. Factoring in the current gas price of $3.16 per gallon and the average 25 mpg for an average vehicle, the estimated cost of gas for a round trip is approximately $26.94. It's essential to consider all possible routes and carefully analyze the cost to make informed decisions while planning a trip.