The Cost of a Trip between Bowling Green, Kentucky and Luray, Virginia

As temperatures rise and summer approaches, many individuals and families begin to plan their vacation getaways. One of the most common modes of transportation for a road trip is by car, making gas prices an essential factor in calculating the trip's cost. This article will explore the cost of a trip between Bowling Green, Kentucky, and Luray, Virginia, through possible routes and highlight the most efficient route based on distance and gas prices.

Possible Routes

Route 1

The first possible route is to take Interstate 65 North towards Louisville, Kentucky, then merge onto Interstate 64 East towards Lexington, Kentucky. From there, merge onto Interstate 81 South, and follow it all the way to Luray, Virginia, where visitors will reach their destination.

This route covers a total distance of approximately 667 miles and takes approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes. Along the way, travelers will pass through Louisville, Lexington, and Roanoke cities.

Route 2

The second possible route is to take Interstate 65 North towards Louisville, Kentucky, and merge onto Interstate 71 North towards Cincinnati, Ohio. From there, take Interstate 75 South towards Lexington, Kentucky, and merge onto Interstate 64 East. Continue east on Interstate 64 and merge onto Interstate 81 South, driving all the way to Luray, Virginia, where visitors will reach the final destination.

This route covers a total distance of approximately 662 miles and takes approximately 10 hours and 40 minutes. Along the way, travelers will pass through Cincinnati, Lexington, and Roanoke cities.

Route 3

The third possible route is to take the Blue Ridge Parkway from Bowling Green, Kentucky, and drive until the Parkway meets Highway 211. Follow Highway 211 east until Luray, Virginia.

This route covers a total distance of approximately 585 miles and takes approximately 14 hours. Along the way, travelers will enjoy scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Gas Prices and Costs

To calculate the cost of the trip, we will need to assume an average gas price of $2.88 per gallon, which is the current national average (as of June 2021). Additionally, we will consider a car that has an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, based on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) vehicles' data.

Route 1

Since this route covers a total distance of approximately 667 miles, travelers will consume approximately 26.68 gallons of gas, which will cost approximately $76.97 for a one-way trip. A round trip will require approximately 53.36 gallons of gas, costing approximately $153.94.

Route 2

Since this route covers a total distance of approximately 662 miles, travelers will consume approximately 26.48 gallons of gas, which will cost approximately $76.36 for a one-way trip. A round trip will require approximately 52.96 gallons of gas, costing approximately $152.72.

Route 3

Since this route covers a total distance of approximately 585 miles, travelers will consume approximately 23.4 gallons of gas, which will cost approximately $67.71 for a one-way trip. A round trip will require approximately 46.8 gallons of gas, costing approximately $135.42.

Recommendation

Based on the three possible routes, the most efficient and cost-effective route is Route 1. Although this route covers a slightly longer distance than Route 2, it will allow travelers to reach their final destination 10 minutes earlier and save approximately $0.64 per round trip. Furthermore, Route 1 avoids the Blue Ridge Parkway's windy and sometimes narrow roads, making it a safer option for drivers who are not experienced in high-altitude driving.

Conclusion

Overall, traveling from Bowling Green, Kentucky, to Luray, Virginia, can consume a considerable amount of gas and money. However, by selecting Route 1, travelers can save money while also arriving at their destination on time. It is essential to remember that gas prices fluctuate frequently and that the estimated gas prices and costs may not be entirely accurate. Thus, travelers should also factor in their car's gas mileage and travelling time before embarking on their trip. Happy travels!