The Cost of a Trip Between Cambria and Clovis: Which Route Should You Take?

If you’re planning a trip between Cambria, California and Clovis, California, the cost of travel is an important factor to consider. Whether you’re traveling by car or by public transportation, there are several different options and routes that can affect your budget. In this article, we’ll explore the various routes and costs associated with each, and help you determine the best way to travel between these two cities.

Route 1: Highway One and US-101

The first route option is to take Highway One and US-101. Starting in Cambria, you would take Highway One north up the coast until it meets up with US-101, which you would then continue on to Clovis. This route has the advantage of being scenic, with stunning ocean views and the chance to stop and explore towns like Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo. However, it's also a longer drive, at approximately 222 miles and around 4 hours and 40 minutes without traffic.

When it comes to cost, this route is relatively moderate. Gas prices vary widely depending on the time of year, but you can generally expect to spend around $30-40 in gas for a round trip. If you’re driving your own car, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of wear and tear, as well as any tolls or parking fees along the way.

Route 2: Highway 101

The second route option is to take Highway 101 straight from Cambria to Clovis. This is a more direct route, cutting out the scenic drive up Highway One. It's also a shorter drive, at approximately 165 miles and around 3 hours and 20 minutes without traffic.

Cost-wise, this route is slightly cheaper than Route 1. You can expect to spend around $25-35 on gas for a round trip, again depending on gas prices at the time of your trip. If you’re driving your own car, you’ll need to factor in wear and tear and any other expenses as well.

Route 3: Public Transportation

If you prefer not to drive, there are several options for public transportation between Cambria and Clovis. One option is to take a Greyhound bus, which offers one daily trip from Cambria to Fresno (which is near to Clovis). The bus ride takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes and costs around $30-40 for a one-way ticket, depending on the time of year.

Another option is to take an Amtrak train from San Luis Obispo (which is about 40 miles south of Cambria) to Fresno. This route requires a bit more planning and scheduling, as there are only two trains running each day, and the journey takes around 5 hours and 40 minutes. However, the train ride is scenic and comfortable, with onboard amenities like snacks, Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Prices for Amtrak tickets vary by date and time, but you can generally expect to spend around $35-50 for a one-way ticket.

Recommended Route

While each of these routes has its advantages and drawbacks, we recommend Route 2, taking Highway 101 straight from Cambria to Clovis. This route is the most direct and efficient, offering a shorter drive time and slightly lower costs. While it may not be as scenic as Route 1, it still offers some interesting views of the Central Coast and Sierra Nevada mountains.

One thing to keep in mind when traveling this route is the possibility of traffic, particularly when passing through larger cities like San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles. If possible, try to time your trip outside of peak commute hours to avoid delays and congestion.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of travel between Cambria and Clovis can vary widely depending on your mode of transportation and route. If you’re driving your own car, gas prices and wear and tear costs should be factored in. If you prefer public transportation, Greyhound and Amtrak can be convenient and comfortable options. Regardless of which route you choose, be sure to budget appropriately and plan for any unexpected expenses or delays. With careful planning and consideration, you can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and budget-friendly trip between these two charming California cities.