The Cost of Driving from Boulder to Colorado Springs: A Comprehensive Guide

Driving from Boulder, Colorado to Colorado Springs, Colorado is a pretty common route for those looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you're a tourist or a local looking for a weekend getaway, there are several routes to choose from, each with its own cost and distance. In this article, we'll break down the different routes and their prices, so you can make an informed decision before you hit the road.

Possible Routes

US-36 E to I-25 S (Distance: 104 miles) – This route is the most direct, taking you straight south on US-36 and merging onto I-25 S towards Colorado Springs. This is a popular choice for those looking to get to their destination quickly and don't necessarily want to make many stops along the way.
CO-119 S to I-70 E to CO-83 S (Distance: 165 miles) – This route will take you through a more scenic drive, with mountain towns and vista points along the way. Take CO-119 S to Boulder Canyon Drive, merge onto CO-72 E, and take I-70 E. Exit onto CO-83 S towards Colorado Springs.
CO-7 W to CO-72 W to CO-119 N to US-36 E (Distance: 130 miles) – If you're looking to see more mountain scenery, this route is a great option. Take CO-7 W, merge onto CO-72 W, turn right onto CO-119 N, and finally merge onto US-36 E towards Colorado Springs.

Cost Breakdown

The cost of driving from Boulder to Colorado Springs will depend on several factors, including your car's fuel efficiency and current gas prices. We'll be assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and the current gas prices as of September 2021 in this breakdown:

Gas prices: $3.19/gallon (source: https://www.gasbuddy.com/GasPrices/Colorado/Boulder)
Distance: Based on each route's distance as listed above

US-36 E to I-25 S

Distance: 104 miles
Gas used: 4.16 gallons
Gas cost: $13.29
Total cost (round trip): $26.58

CO-119 S to I-70 E to CO-83 S

Distance: 165 miles
Gas used: 6.6 gallons
Gas cost: $21.06
Total cost (round trip): $42.12

CO-7 W to CO-72 W to CO-119 N to US-36 E

Distance: 130 miles
Gas used: 5.2 gallons
Gas cost: $16.55
Total cost (round trip): $33.10

The Best Route

As you can see from the cost breakdown, taking the US-36 E to I-25 S route is the cheapest option for a round trip to Colorado Springs. However, if you're looking to make several stops along the way or just want a more scenic route, either of the other two options are great choices. It ultimately depends on your priorities and what kind of trip you want to have.

Conclusion

Driving from Boulder to Colorado Springs can be a fun and affordable getaway, as long as you're prepared for the cost of gas. Depending on your preferences, there are several routes to choose from, each with its own cost and distance. But no matter which way you go, you're guaranteed to see some stunning mountain views along the way. Safe travels!