The Cost of a Trip Between Boise and Moscow Based on Current Gas Prices

If you are planning a trip from Boise, Idaho to Moscow, Idaho, and you want to get the best deal possible, there are a few things that you need to consider, including the cost of fuel, the distance, and the route. In this article, we will explore all these factors and provide recommendations on the best route to take based on current gas prices.

The Different Possible Routes

There are several routes available between Boise and Moscow, but the most common ones are:

Route 1: Through Pullman, WA

This is the most popular route for drivers, and it is approximately 320 miles long. To take this route, you will drive on I-84 for about 140 miles until you get to the town of Ontario, OR. From there, you will take US-95 north, making your way through the towns of Cambridge and Council, ID , and eventually reach Grangeville, ID.

At Grangeville, you will continue to follow US-95 for an extra 26 miles until you get to the infamous White Bird Hill. This hill is challenging, so you may want to take it slow if you are not familiar with the area. From there, continue on US-95 until you reach Lewiston, ID, a city that sits on the banks of the Clearwater River. When you get to Lewiston, you will cross the Snake River on US-12 and continue on to Pullman, WA. From there, it is a short 8-mile drive up Highway 195 to Moscow.

Route 2: Through Couer d'Alene, ID

This route is approximately 360 miles long and offers some exciting scenery along the way. From Boise, you will take I-84 to the town of Caldwell, ID, from there, you will head north on US-95 to Couer d'Alene, ID. In Couer d'Alene, you will connect with I-90 and continue on to Spokane, WA. When you get to Spokane, you will head south on US-195 to Pullman, WA, and then finish your journey to Moscow.

Route 3: Through McCall, ID

This route is the longest of the three, clocking in at approximately 430 miles. It is sometimes preferred by those who enjoy exploring Idaho's remote interior. From Boise, you take Hwy 55 to McCall ID where you will then turn east on US-95. Follow US-95 through Grangeville where it converges with US-12 to start heading east again. Take US-12 to Lewiston and cross over to Clarkston on the Snake River and take US-195 into Pullman.

Fuel Cost Comparison

To compare fuel costs between the different routes, we will use an assumption of 20 miles per gallon fuel economy. Also, we will use the average gas price of the region, currently at $2.70 a gallon.

Route 1: Through Pullman, WA

At a total distance of 320 miles, fuel costs for this route will be approximately $43.20 based on the average gas price assumption.

Route 2: Through Couer d'Alene, ID

At a distance of 360 miles, fuel costs for this route will be approximately $48.60.

Route 3: Through McCall, ID

At a total distance of 430 miles, fuel costs for this route will be approximately $58.05.

Recommendations on The Best Route

Based on our fuel cost comparisons and distance estimates, we recommend Route 1, which covers the lowest distance and, therefore, the least amount of fuel. This route is also less challenging than other routes, making it easier to navigate.

Please note that if you want to enjoy Idaho's scenery, Route 3 may be an excellent option, albeit the cost disadvantage. All routes offer something unique, so it depends on what you prefer.

Conclusion

With current gas prices, it is essential to make informed decisions when planning a trip and choosing a route to save on costs. While there are many routes that drivers can take when traveling from Boise, Idaho, to Moscow, Idaho, Route 1 through Pullman, WA, offers the most cost-effective option.

In total, the journey will cover approximately 320 miles, and fuel costs will amount to approximately $43.20, making it an affordable and hassle-free option. The trip takes about 5 hours and 36 min, excluding breaks and meals. It's a beautiful journey through the rolling landscapes of Idaho, which provides a picture-perfect view of nature. Always keep in mind a comfortable and safe journey is more important than costs, of course, drive safely, and enjoy your Idaho experience!