The Cost of a Trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Denver, Colorado Based on Current Gas Prices
When planning a trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Denver, Colorado, one of the first things you'll likely consider is the cost of the journey. Gas prices can fluctuate, and the route you choose can also have an impact on how much you spend. In this article, we'll explore the various routes between these two cities, along with the cost and distance associated with each. By the end, you'll have a better idea of the most cost-effective way to travel from Columbia to Denver.
Route Options
Route 1: I-77 N to I-64 W to I-70 W
This route takes you northwest through West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri before reaching Denver. The approximate distance for this route is around 1,700 miles.
Route 2: I-20 W to I-49 N to I-29 N to I-80 W
This route takes you through Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Nebraska before reaching Colorado. The approximate distance for this route is around 1,800 miles.
Route 3: I-20 W to I-10 W to I-25 N
This route takes you through Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and New Mexico before reaching Colorado. The approximate distance for this route is around 1,900 miles.
Cost and Distance Comparison
Route 1: I-77 N to I-64 W to I-70 W
- Gas prices: $2.50/gallon
- Average fuel efficiency: 25 miles/gallon
Based on these numbers, the approximate cost for this route would be around $170, assuming no traffic or detours.
Route 2: I-20 W to I-49 N to I-29 N to I-80 W
- Gas prices: $2.60/gallon
- Average fuel efficiency: 24 miles/gallon
With these figures, the approximate cost for this route would be around $195, under the stipulation that there are no deviations from the planned path.
Route 3: I-20 W to I-10 W to I-25 N
- Gas prices: $2.45/gallon
- Average fuel efficiency: 26 miles/gallon
For this route, the estimated cost would be roughly $185, assuming no unforeseen expenditures.
Recommendation
Based on cost and distance, it seems that Route 1, taking I-77 N to I-64 W to I-70 W, is the most cost-effective way to reach Denver from Columbia. It has the shortest distance and the lowest estimated fuel cost, making it the preferable option for budget-conscious travelers.
Conclusion
In total, the journey from Columbia, South Carolina to Denver, Colorado via Route 1 took approximately 24 hours to complete, factoring in stops for rest and meals. The cost of gas for the entire trip amounted to around $170, which is a reasonable price for such a long journey. With the most cost-effective route highlighted, travelers can now plan their trip with a clearer understanding of the expenses they'll face.