The True Cost of a Road Trip from Boise, ID to Firestone, CO
Planning a road trip can be an exciting adventure, but calculating the cost of gas and other expenses can be overwhelming. This guide will detail the different routes and costs associated with a road trip from Boise, ID to Firestone, CO. Using current gas prices, we will provide an estimated cost of travel for each route and offer a recommendation on the best option for a successful journey.
Route Options
There are three main route options to travel from Boise, ID to Firestone, CO: the Northern Route, the Southern Route, and the Central Route. Each route offers differing mileage and gas expenses, so it is important to weigh the pros and cons of each before deciding which one to take.
The Northern Route
The Northern Route takes you through parts of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, before reaching Colorado. This route is the longest at approximately 1,070 miles, but it also offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Here is a breakdown of the expected gas costs based on an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) and an average gas price of $2.75 per gallon:
- Boise, ID to Butte, MT - 336 miles, $43.20
- Butte, MT to Sheridan, WY - 315 miles, $40.50
- Sheridan, WY to Firestone, CO - 419 miles, $53.82
Total gas cost: $137.52
This route covers the most scenic and untouched area, but it is also the longest, which could be a drawback if you are short on time. However, if you're looking for a full road trip experience, the Northern Route could be a great option.
The Southern Route
The Southern Route is the shortest at approximately 950 miles, but it also requires you to drive through high elevations and winding mountain roads. The Southern Route will take you through parts of Utah before reaching Colorado. Here is a breakdown of expected gas costs using the same assumptions as before:
- Boise, ID to Salt Lake City, UT - 344 miles, $44.16
- Salt Lake City, UT to Grand Junction, CO - 279 miles, $35.91
- Grand Junction, CO to Firestone, CO - 327 miles, $42.07
Total gas cost: $122.14
The Southern Route offers beautiful views of the Wasatch and Rocky Mountains, but it does require some cautious driving through high terrain. While shorter in distance than the Northern Route, its winding roads and high elevations may increase drive time.
The Central Route
The Central Route takes you through Wyoming and Nebraska before reaching Colorado. While it has the second-longest travel distance at approximately 1,020 miles, it offers more predictable driving conditions and still grants access to some beautiful scenery along the way. Here is a breakdown of the expected gas costs using the same assumptions:
- Boise, ID to Rock Springs, WY - 289 miles, $37.17
- Rock Springs, WY to North Platte, NE - 463 miles, $59.64
- North Platte, NE to Firestone, CO - 268 miles, $34.47
Total gas cost: $131.28
The Central Route offers a good balance between distance and driving conditions, but it lacks the scenic beauty of the other routes. It can be a less stressful option though if you're looking for smooth driving conditions.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best route for you will depend on your personal preference for driving conditions, scenery, and time constraints. All of the above routes offer different advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to carefully consider each one before deciding. Based on gas expenses alone, the Southern Route is the cheapest, but keep in mind that it required cautious driving through high mountain ranges. The Northern Route offers the most scenic views, but it is also the longest, which might not work with your timeframe. The Central Route offers the most predictable driving conditions, but you may find yourself missing out on some of the breathtaking views that the other routes offer.
Whichever route you choose, the most important thing is to take your time and enjoy the journey. Road trips can be a lot of fun, and by carefully weighing your options and factoring in expenses like gas and food, you can ensure that your trip is one to remember. Safe travels!