The Cost of a Trip Between Cedar City and American Fork Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling between Cedar City and American Fork in Utah requires planning and attention to detail, especially when it comes to the cost of fuel. With varying gas prices, there are several routes to take, depending on the budget and schedule of the traveler. In this informative article, we'll discuss the different routes, their associated costs, and the best option to take to reach American Fork from Cedar City.
The Routes and Their Distance
There are primarily three routes that you can take from Cedar City to American Fork. The first and most direct route is through I-15 North. This route is a distance of 236 miles and has several gas stations on the way. The entire journey takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes if you maintain the average speed limit of 65 mph. However, depending on traffic and other factors, the travel time could be more or less.
The second route is through UT-9 E. This route is 341 miles and has a travel time of around 5 hours and 20 minutes. The average speed limit on this route is also 65 mph. This road, however, is not well-lit, and gas stations may be scarce in some parts. You'll need to pack a few extra snacks and drinks for this journey.
The third and last option is to take US Hwy 89 N. This route is the longest, with a total distance of 402 miles and a travel time of approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. You'll encounter hilly terrain and several winding turns, so it is advisable to keep your speed limits lower than the average. The most significant advantage of this route is that you'll pass through several national parks, including Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park.
The Cost of Fuel
According to AAA, as of August 2021, the average cost of gas in Utah is $3.43 per gallon. Fuel cost is typically the most significant expense for any road trip, so it's essential to consider how much you'll be spending on fuel before hitting the open road. To estimate the fuel cost for any journey, you'll need to know your vehicle's fuel efficiency rating, the distance you'll be traveling, and the current fuel prices.
The average fuel efficiency rating of a midsize sedan is around 30 mpg. Taking into consideration the different routes and their distances, the estimated fuel cost is as follows:
I-15 N:
- Total miles: 236
- Fuel efficiency: 30 mpg
- Total fuel needed: 7.87 gallons
- Total fuel cost: $27.02
UT-9 E:
- Total miles: 341
- Fuel efficiency: 30 mpg
- Total fuel needed: 11.36 gallons
- Total fuel cost: $38.96
US Hwy 89 N:
- Total miles: 402
- Fuel efficiency: 30 mpg
- Total fuel needed: 13.4 gallons
- Total fuel cost: $45.98
Recommendations
Based on fuel cost and travel time, it's essential to choose the most practical route for any journey. With the data we've gathered, I-15 N is the most cost-effective and direct route to take from Cedar City to American Fork. Although it may not be the most scenic, it has several gas stations along the way, making it the most fuel-friendly option. The other three routes may offer more scenic beauty, but with longer travel times and higher fuel costs, they may not be the most practical.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of fuel is an essential factor to consider when traveling between Cedar City and American Fork in Utah. With varying gas prices across different regions, it's essential to plan your route accordingly. Based on the analysis we've conducted, I-15 N is the most cost-effective and direct option. With an estimated fuel cost of $27.02 and a total travel time of approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes, it's the most practical choice for any traveler. Regardless of the route you take, make sure to pack some extra snacks, water, and other essentials for a comfortable journey. Safe travels!