The Cost of a Trip from Blue Springs, Missouri to Menahga, Minnesota: Exploring Different Routes in the Age of Rising Gas Prices

Traveling by car is one of the most convenient and flexible ways to get from point A to B, especially when it comes to long-distance travel. However, with the recent surge in gas prices, many drivers are becoming more conscious about the cost-effectiveness of their travels. In this article, we will take a closer look at the cost of a trip from Blue Springs, Missouri, to Menahga, Minnesota, through different routes and explore the factors that can affect the overall cost.

Route 1: I-35 N and US-71 N

One of the most commonly taken routes from Blue Springs to Menahga is through I-35 N and US-71 N. This route covers a total distance of approximately 800 miles and takes around 12 hours of driving time, depending on the traffic, road conditions, and other factors.

The first leg of the trip is through I-35 N, which starts from Blue Springs and passes through Kansas City, Des Moines, and Minneapolis before connecting with US-71 N. From here, the route continues towards Belgrade, Wadena, and finally Menahga in Minnesota.

Based on the current gas prices in Missouri and Minnesota, the estimated cost of a one-way trip through this route is around $170-190, depending on the fuel efficiency of your car and the number of times you need to fill up gas. This route also has the advantage of passing through many rest areas, restaurants, and gas stations, making it easy to make pit stops and refuel along the way.

Route 2: I-70 W, I-29 N, and US-71 N

Another possible route is through I-70 W, I-29 N, and US-71 N. This route is slightly longer than the first one, covering a total distance of around 840 miles and taking around 13 hours of driving time. However, this route has the advantage of passing through some scenic attractions, such as Kansas City, St. Joseph, and Lake of the Ozarks.

The first leg of the trip starts from Blue Springs and passes through Independence, Kansas City, and eventually connects with I-29 N. From here, the route continues towards St. Joseph, Maryville, and eventually Belgrade, where it merges with US-71 N, leading to Wadena and Menahga.

The estimated cost of a one-way trip through this route is around $200-230, slightly higher than the first one due to the longer distance and additional fuel costs. However, this route also provides some interesting stops along the way, such as the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, the National World War I Museum, and some state parks.

Route 3: US-65 N, US-20 W, and US-71 N

A third option for traveling from Blue Springs to Menahga is through US-65 N, US-20 W, and US-71 N. This route passes through some unique landmarks, such as Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is suitable for drivers who want to experience some of the Midwest's less-traveled roads. The total distance covered through this route is around 830 miles and takes around 13 hours of driving time.

The first leg of this route starts in Blue Springs and follows US-65 N towards Marshalltown, where it connects with US-20 W. The route then heads west towards Waterloo, Dubuque, and finally connects with US-71 N in McGregor, leading to Wadena and Menahga.

The estimated cost of a one-way trip through this route is around $190-220, depending on the fuel consumption of your car and other factors. This route involves fewer rest areas and gas stations, so drivers should plan their stops accordingly.

The Best Route and Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of traveling from Blue Springs, Missouri, to Menahga, Minnesota, varies depending on the route, distance covered, and gas prices. Based on the routes explored above, the most cost-effective and practical option is through I-35 N and US-71 N, which provides easy access to rest areas, gas stations, and various attractions along the way.

However, drivers could also consider exploring the other routes, depending on their interests, preferences, and time constraints. Regardless of which route they choose, drivers should keep a few tips in mind, such as choosing a fuel-efficient car, maintaining a steady speed, and avoiding unnecessary idling to save on gas. Overall, the trip from Blue Springs to Menahga is a long but rewarding journey that can provide some memorable experiences and teach valuable lessons about budgeting, planning, and resourcefulness.