Driving Cost from Boulder, Colorado to Butte, Montana

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The Cost of a Trip between Boulder, Colorado, and Butte, Montana Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a road trip from Boulder, Colorado, to Butte, Montana? Whether you are heading for business or pleasure, the cost of gas will be a significant factor to consider. With gas prices fluctuating frequently, it's essential to know the cost and distance of the different routes. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Possible Routes

There are different routes you can take when driving from Boulder, Colorado, to Butte, Montana, depending on your preferences and travel goals. Here are some of the possible options:

Route 1: Via I-25 N and I-90 W

This is the shortest distance of the three routes, covering 632 miles and taking approximately 10 hours to drive. The route starts in Boulder, Colorado, and heads north on I-25, past Cheyenne, Wyoming. From there, you'll head west on I-90, taking you through Wyoming's scenic areas, Montana's Yellowstone National Park, and finally Butte, Montana.

Route 2: Via I-80 W and I-15 N

This route is slightly longer than Route 1, covering 727 miles and taking approximately 11 hours to drive. The route starts in Boulder, Colorado, and heads northwest on I-80, passing through Wyoming, Utah, and Idaho. From there, you'll head north on I-15, taking you through Montana's capital, Helena, before finally reaching Butte.

Route 3: Via US-287 N and US-12 W

This is the longest of the three routes, covering 790 miles and taking approximately 13 hours to drive. The route starts in Boulder, Colorado, and heads north on US-287, passing through Wyoming's scenic Laramie Range. From there, you'll take US-191 N, connecting with US-12 W, and passing through Montana's capital, Helena, before finally reaching Butte.

Cost and Distance Comparison

Now that we have explored the different routes, let's compare the cost and distance of each one, based on current gas prices. We will assume a gas price of $2.85 per gallon, with a vehicle that has an average mileage of 25 miles per gallon.

Route 1: Via I-25 N and I-90 W

  • Distance: 632 miles
  • Driving time: Approximately 10 hours
  • Gas cost: $107.52

Route 2: Via I-80 W and I-15 N

  • Distance: 727 miles
  • Driving time: Approximately 11 hours
  • Gas cost: $123.48

Route 3: Via US-287 N and US-12 W

  • Distance: 790 miles
  • Driving time: Approximately 13 hours
  • Gas cost: $134.40

Based on the cost and distance comparison, Route 1 is the most cost-effective and shortest route. However, if you prefer a more scenic drive, you might want to consider Route 2, which passes through Utah’s Salt Lake City. Route 3 is the least cost-effective and longest, but it offers the possibility of visiting Helena, Montana’s capital.

Considering the cost and distance comparison, we recommend Route 1 via I-25 N and I-90 W as the best option for a trip from Boulder, Colorado, to Butte, Montana. Not only is it the most cost-effective, but it’s also the quickest route, taking approximately 10 hours to drive. Additionally, it allows you to pass through Yellowstone National Park, which offers breathtaking views of nature and wildlife.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a trip from Boulder, Colorado, to Butte, Montana, can be both exciting and cost-effective, depending on the route you choose. Based on current gas prices, Route 1 via I-25 N and I-90 W is the best option in terms of cost, distance, and time. However, if you prefer a more scenic drive or want to visit Montana’s capital, you may want to consider Route 2 or Route 3. Regardless of your choice, be sure to plan your trip ahead of time, pack accordingly, and have a safe and enjoyable journey.