The Cost of Driving from Bozeman, Montana to Des Moines, Iowa Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a road trip from Bozeman, Montana to Des Moines, Iowa? Exploring new places and hitting the open road can be an exhilarating experience. However, it's essential to consider the cost of the trip to ensure you stay within your budget. In this blog post, we will highlight different routes, their distances, the time it takes to complete each route, and the cost of gas and tolls along the way. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Route 1: I-90 E - The Straightforward Route

Distance: 1,010 miles | Time: around 15 hours

If you prefer the most direct and time-efficient route, taking Interstate 90 East will be your best bet. This route will take you through some stunning landscapes and charming towns along the way. From Bozeman, you'll first drive through Billings, Montana, before entering Wyoming. Continuing east, you'll pass through picturesque South Dakota, with attractions like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park nearby. Finally, you'll cross into Iowa, leading you straight to Des Moines.

Gas Prices: As of the latest update, gas prices along this route average around $3.50 per gallon. Considering the distance, you'll likely need to fill up your tank a few times, with an estimated cost of $180 for gas.

Tolls: Fortunately, this route does not have any toll roads or bridges, meaning you won't have to worry about any additional expenses apart from gas.

Route 2: I-94 E - The Scenic Option

Distance: 1,090 miles | Time: around 16 hours

If you prefer a slightly longer route with a touch of scenic beauty, taking Interstate 94 East might be a great choice. This route will take you through parts of Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and finally, Iowa. Along the way, you'll witness rolling prairies, charming small towns, and vast stretches of farmland.

Gas Prices: Gas prices along this route are similar to Route 1, averaging around $3.50 per gallon. With the extra distance, you'll likely spend around $190 on gas.

Tolls: Similar to Route 1, this route does not have any toll roads or bridges.

Route 3: US-20 E - The Scenic & Leisurely Route

Distance: 1,260 miles | Time: around 19 hours

If you have ample time to spare and crave a leisurely drive with breathtaking scenic beauty, Route 3 might be perfect for you. Taking US-20 East, this route will take you on a memorable journey through Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska, and finally, Iowa. Along the way, you'll witness majestic mountains, vast prairies, iconic landmarks like Yellowstone National Park, and also explore charming small towns.

Gas Prices: Gas prices may vary slightly along this route, but they generally average around $3.50 per gallon as well. With the additional distance and time, plan on spending around $215 on gas.

Tolls: Just like the previous routes, this one does not include any toll roads or bridges.

Conclusion

When planning your road trip from Bozeman, Montana to Des Moines, Iowa, it's crucial to consider the cost of the journey. While the options for routes vary in terms of distance, time, and scenic beauty, they all provide a memorable experience. Based on the current gas prices of around $3.50 per gallon and the distances highlighted above, you can estimate the total cost for gas along each route.

Remember to always budget for additional expenses such as food, lodging, and potential detours or attractions you may want to visit along the way. Whichever route you choose, enjoy the adventure, embrace the unknown, and create lasting memories!