The Cost of a Trip between Colorado Springs, Colorado and Taos, New Mexico
When planning a trip between Colorado Springs, Colorado and Taos, New Mexico, one of the key factors to consider is the cost of transportation. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it's important to assess the various routes and the associated costs before hitting the road. In this article, we'll explore the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and ultimately recommend the best route based on current gas prices.
Route 1: I-25 South to US-160 West
The first route option is to take I-25 South from Colorado Springs and then transition onto US-160 West in Walsenburg, Colorado. This route covers a distance of approximately 240 miles and takes around 4 hours to drive.
Based on current gas prices, the cost of driving this route one-way can range from $40 to $60, depending on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.
Route 2: I-25 South to US-285 South
Another route to consider is taking I-25 South and then switching onto US-285 South in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This route spans roughly 260 miles and takes approximately 4.5 hours to traverse.
For this route, the cost of gas for a one-way trip can range from $45 to $65, factoring in the price of fuel and vehicle fuel efficiency.
Route 3: Scenic Route via US-84
For those who prefer a more scenic drive, a third route option is to take US-24 West from Colorado Springs and then transition onto US-84 South in Walsenburg. This route covers a distance of around 270 miles and takes about 5 hours to complete.
When factoring in current gas prices, the cost of driving this scenic route can amount to approximately $50 to $70 for a one-way trip.
Recommended Route
Based on the current gas prices and the overall distance and travel time, the recommended route for a cost-effective trip between Colorado Springs, Colorado and Taos, New Mexico is Route 1: I-25 South to US-160 West. This route not only offers a relatively shorter distance and travel time but also falls within a reasonable cost range based on current fuel prices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when factoring in the cost of gas and the distance between Colorado Springs, Colorado and Taos, New Mexico, the recommended route of I-25 South to US-160 West is the most cost-effective option. With a one-way travel cost ranging from $40 to $60 based on current gas prices, this route offers a good balance of affordability and travel efficiency. Additionally, the approximately 240-mile journey can be completed in around 4 hours, making it a convenient and economical choice for travelers.