Driving Cost from Boulder, Colorado to St. George, Utah

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The Cost of a Road Trip between Boulder, Colorado and St. George, Utah: Navigating the Best Route with Affordable Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can be exciting, yet overwhelming, especially when it comes to calculating the expenses involved. Fuel prices are undoubtedly one of the most significant expenses of any road trip, and with the erratic swings in gas prices, it's vital to plan ahead and analyze the cost of various routes available. If traveling from Boulder, Colorado, to St. George, Utah, this article covers the cost, distance, and the best probable route to take while enjoying affordable gas prices.

Route Options

When making the journey from Boulder, Colorado, to St. George, Utah, there are several route options to choose from. Selecting the best path will depend on a mix of your budget, time constraints, and your driving preferences.

Route 1: Boulder to St George via I-70 (504 miles)

One route option is to travel via I-70. This route spans across the Rocky Mountains and offers stunning scenery. The most direct way is to travel west on Interstate-70 across Colorado and into Utah. The trip covers a total distance of 504 miles.

The freeway is easy to navigate and has ample rest stops, making it ideal for long journeys. However, because of the significant distance involved, travelers should expect to pay a substantial amount in fuel cost. The journey is expected to take around 8 hours, depending on the speed limits and traffic jams. The estimated fuel cost using an average car that gets around 30 MPG on the highway is around $100 to $140, depending on gas prices.

Route 2: Boulder to St George via I-80 then I-15 (732 miles)

Another route option to consider when traveling from Boulder to St. George is to drive west on I-80 through Wyoming before heading south on I-15 through Salt Lake City and into St. George. This route covers a distance of 732 miles, making it 228 miles longer than route one. It's ideal for travelers who desire a longer drive and want to see more attractions or those who want an option to make a stop in Salt Lake City.

Navigating through two highways with more significant traffic can result in longer travel times, delays, and a higher fuel cost. The estimated fuel cost using an average car that gets around 30 MPG on the highway is around $140 to $200, depending on gas prices. The journey should take around 12 hours on the road.

Route 3: Boulder to St George via I-70 then I-15 (606 miles)

A third option to consider is taking the I-70 route to Salt Lake City, then continue on I-15 to St. George. This route covers 606 miles and offers incredible views of the Rockies and the national parks in between. Travelers can also make a stop in Salt Lake City, which has several attractions. This path is ideal for those who want to use up less fuel, avoid the potential traffic headaches of the I-80 route, and still have a chance to explore Salt Lake City.

The estimated fuel cost using an average car that gets around 30 MPG on the highway is around $120 to $160, depending on gas prices. The journey should take around ten to eleven hours, depending on delays and speed limits.

When considering options between I-70 or I-80 routes, choosing the I-70 route is a better option due to its shorter distance and lower fuel costs. I-80 can be hectic and can quickly inflate fuel cost and travel time, especially during peak hours. While the I-70 and I-15 route may not be as direct as I-80, it offers more incredible views, stops, and more affordable fuel prices.

Conclusion

Traveling from Boulder, Colorado, to St. George, Utah, provides several route options, which can provide an excellent opportunity for travelers to explore different sceneries while driving through the town. However, ensuring to budget and analyze fuel costs for each path before embarking on the journey can help avoid the headache of unplanned expenses. It's essential to consider factors like travel time, distance, possible delays, and attractions along the routes. By doing this, road travelers can make informed decisions, save money, and enjoy a beautiful road trip experience.