The Cost of a Trip between Brandon, Manitoba and Denver, Colorado: Navigating the Current Gas Prices
Introduction
Planning a road trip from Brandon, Manitoba to Denver, Colorado? As fuel prices continue to fluctuate, it is crucial to consider the cost of gas when calculating the overall expenses of your journey. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes for your road trip, highlighting the distance, cost, and key attractions along the way. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of the most cost-effective route to embark on your adventure.
Route Options
Route 1: Trans-Canada Highway and I-29 S
The first and most direct route to reach Denver, Colorado from Brandon, Manitoba is by taking the Trans-Canada Highway and then connecting to Interstate 29 South. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,080 miles (1,739 kilometers) and takes around 18 hours of driving time.
Starting from Brandon, Manitoba, you will travel south on Highway 10 until reaching the Canadian border. After crossing into the United States, you will continue south on Interstate 29 until reaching Sioux Falls, South Dakota. From Sioux Falls, take Interstate 90 westward until you reach Wall, where you will merge onto Interstate 80, finally leading you to Denver.
Considering the current gas prices, estimated fuel costs for this route (based on an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and the current average price of gas in Manitoba and Colorado) come to approximately $200 for a one-way trip.
Route 2: Trans-Canada Highway, US Highway 83, and I-70 E
For those seeking a different route with some scenic detours, considering taking the Trans-Canada Highway, then diverting south on US Highway 83, and finally connecting to Interstate 70 East. This option offers both beautiful landscapes and noteworthy attractions along the way.
Beginning your journey on the Trans-Canada Highway, head south until you reach the Canadian border. After crossing into the US, continue south on Highway 83 through the picturesque landscapes of North Dakota, passing charming towns such as Bismarck. When you reach Bismarck, make sure to explore the North Dakota State Capitol and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center before proceeding south on Highway 83. Eventually, you will arrive at Interstate 70 East, which will guide you to Denver, Colorado.
This route spans about 1,190 miles (1,915 kilometers) and takes approximately 20 hours of driving time. The estimated fuel costs for this route come to around $230 for a one-way trip.
Route 3: Trans-Canada Highway, US Highway 52, and I-25 S
For a more scenic journey through the Dakotas, consider taking the Trans-Canada Highway westward, then diverting south on US Highway 52, and finally connecting to Interstate 25 South. This route presents an opportunity to explore the picturesque landscapes and unique attractions that the Dakotas have to offer.
Starting on the Trans-Canada Highway, head west until you reach Saskatchewan. From there, continue west into North Dakota and head south on Highway 52. Along this route, make a pit stop in Minot, North Dakota, where you can visit the Scandinavian Heritage Park, home to a plethora of Scandinavian-inspired structures and statues. After exploring Minot, continue heading south on Highway 52 until you reach Jamestown, another charming city that houses the National Buffalo Museum and a towering statue of a buffalo named "Dakota Thunder."
Once you reach Jamestown, join Interstate 94 West for a short duration until you connect to Interstate 29 South near Fargo. Continue south on I-29, and then take Interstate 94 West again, leading you to Interstate 25 South, which will take you all the way to Denver, Colorado.
This route covers a distance of about 1,250 miles (2,012 kilometers) and takes approximately 21 hours of driving time. The estimated fuel costs for this route come to around $240 for a one-way trip.
Recommended Route
Based on the considerations of both cost and attractions along the way, the recommended route for a road trip from Brandon, Manitoba to Denver, Colorado is Route 1: Trans-Canada Highway and I-29 S. This route is the shortest in terms of distance and offers a direct path to your destination. While the other options provide scenic detours, they add extra mileage and driving time, ultimately increasing fuel costs.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip from Brandon, Manitoba to Denver, Colorado can be an exciting adventure. Taking into account current gas prices, it is essential to plan your route wisely to minimize fuel costs. The recommended route, Route 1, encompasses the Trans-Canada Highway and Interstate 29 South, providing the most direct path to Denver. At an estimated cost of $200, this route covers a distance of around 1,080 miles and takes approximately 18 hours of driving time. So buckle up, enjoy the journey, and embrace the scenic views as you make your way to the beautiful city of Denver, Colorado.