The Cost of a Trip Between Burlington, Vermont and Colchester, Vermont

When planning a trip between Burlington and Colchester in Vermont, one of the first things to consider is the cost of the trip. With gasoline prices constantly fluctuating, it's important to evaluate the different routes available, including the distance, cost, and time. In this article, we will discuss the cost of a trip between Burlington and Colchester based on current gas prices and analyze the different route options.

Possible Routes

There are several routes available to travel between Burlington and Colchester, with some more direct and faster than others. Here are three of the most common routes:

Route 1: US 2

The US 2 route is commonly used as a direct way to travel between Burlington and Colchester. Starting at Main Street in Burlington, the route goes through the Winooski Circle, crosses the Winooski River, and eventually heads into Colchester. This route is 7.6 miles long and estimated to take about 20 minutes by car.

Route 2: I-89

The I-89 route is a more indirect way to travel between Burlington and Colchester, but it is also one of the fastest routes. Starting on US 2, just east of Burlington, this route follows I-89 North until Exit 16, which is Colchester. This route is 9.4 miles long and estimated to take about 15 to 20 minutes by car.

Route 3: VT-127

The VT-127 route is a scenic drive that takes drivers across the Colchester causeway. Starting at the intersection of North Avenue and Shore Road, this route heads North and follows the shore of Lake Champlain. Once it passes the airport, it heads inland and follows VT-127 all the way into Colchester. This route is 11.2 miles long and estimated to take about 30 minutes by car.

Cost Analysis

Now that we've discussed the different route options, let's evaluate the cost of a trip between Burlington and Colchester based on current gasoline prices. The average cost of gasoline in Vermont is around $2.87 per gallon as of June 2021.

The cost of travel between Burlington and Colchester will depend on several factors, such as the distance of the route, the fuel efficiency of the car, and the current gasoline prices. To estimate the cost of a trip, we will assume a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon for the car.

Route 1: US 2

The US 2 route is 7.6 miles long, which means that it will cost around $1.73 in gasoline to travel one way. For a round trip, the cost will be around $3.46.

Route 2: I-89

The I-89 route is 9.4 miles long, which means that it will cost around $2.15 in gasoline to travel one way. For a round trip, the cost will be around $4.30.

Route 3: VT-127

The VT-127 route is 11.2 miles long, which means that it will cost around $2.57 in gasoline to travel one way. For a round trip, the cost will be around $5.14.

Best Route

When considering the different routes for a trip between Burlington and Colchester, it's important to evaluate the cost, time, and personal preferences. Route 1, US 2, is the shortest route but may have more traffic and traffic lights, resulting in a slightly slower trip. Route 2, I-89, is the fastest route but may not be the most scenic route to take. Route 3, VT-127, is the most scenic route but will take the longest time and cost the most for gasoline.

Based on these factors, the best route may depend on the individual's priorities. Those who value speed and efficiency may prefer Route 2, while those who value scenery and leisure may prefer Route 3. Route 1 may be ideal for those who want a direct and shortest route, despite the possible traffic.

Conclusion

A trip between Burlington and Colchester in Vermont can be cost-effective when considering the different route options. Evaluating the cost, time, and personal preferences can help individuals decide which route to take for their trip. Looking at current gasoline prices, a round trip between Burlington and Colchester could cost anywhere between $3.46 to $5.14. Whether it's US 2, I-89, or VT-127, each route offers something unique for travelers to enjoy.