The Cost of a Trip between Brambleton, Virginia and Lake Barcroft, Virginia based on Current Gas Prices
When planning a trip between Brambleton and Lake Barcroft in Virginia, one of the first considerations is the cost of gas. Depending on the route taken, the cost can vary significantly. In this article, we will explore the different routes available and calculate the cost for each one based on current gas prices.
The Possible Routes
There are several routes that can be taken to travel between Brambleton and Lake Barcroft:
- Route 7 and Route 123.
- Route 50 and Route 236.
- George Washington Memorial Parkway and Arlington Boulevard (Route 50).
Each route has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider the associated cost and distance of each one.
Route 7 and Route 123
The first route starts on Route 7 and transitions to Route 123. The total distance of this route is approximately 23 miles, and it takes about 31 minutes to complete the trip without traffic. However, this route can have heavy traffic congestion during peak hours.
Assuming that the vehicle used for the trip has a gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) and the current gas price is around $2.60 per gallon, the total cost of the trip would be roughly $6.24. This is calculated by multiplying the total distance by two (round-trip) and then dividing it by the vehicle’s mpg and multiplying the result by the current gas price.
Route 50 and Route 236
The second route starts on Route 50 and transitions to Route 236. This route is slightly shorter than the first one, covering a total distance of approximately 20 miles. However, it can be more time-consuming due to traffic. It takes about 30 minutes to complete the trip without traffic.
Using the same assumptions as the first route, the cost of the trip would be approximately $4.80. This is because the distance is shorter, and less gas is needed for the trip.
George Washington Memorial Parkway and Arlington Boulevard (Route 50)
The third route starts on George Washington Memorial Parkway and transitions to Arlington Boulevard (Route 50). This is the longest route, with a total distance of 26 miles. However, it offers a scenic drive along the Potomac River.
Assuming the same gas mileage and gas price as the two previous routes, the cost of the trip would be approximately $6.24. This is the same cost as the first route, even though it’s slightly longer, due to the following two reasons:
- The highway in this route has higher speed limits, which means the car consumes more gas per mile.
- The scenic drive aspect can lower an individual’s mpg since a driver may decide to drive slower or brake frequently to enjoy the view.
The Best Route
Based on the distance and cost calculations, the second route is the best one to take when traveling between Brambleton and Lake Barcroft. Not only is it the shortest route but also the most cost-effective one.
However, it’s important to note that traffic can be heavy along this route. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid peak hours, which are typically from 7:00 am to 9:00 am and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Conclusion
When planning a trip between Brambleton and Lake Barcroft, it’s essential to consider the cost of gas. The price of gas can vary depending on the route and the current gas prices. Calculating the cost of each route can help determine which one is the most cost-effective. The second route, which takes Route 50 and Washington Boulevard, is the best route due to its shorter distance and lower cost. Ultimately, the cost of a trip between Brambleton and Lake Barcroft can help decide the best route to take. The trip can take around 30 minutes without traffic, but it's advisable to avoid peak hours to get to the destination without traffic issues.