The Cost of a Trip: Columbus, Ohio to Ashland, Ohio

Introduction

Traveling from Columbus, Ohio to Ashland, Ohio offers a variety of routes and distances to consider. Each route has its own costs, including gas, tolls, and time. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it's important to know the cost of the trip before hitting the road. This article will break down the different routes, their costs, and provide recommendations based on current gas prices.

The Different Routes

There are a few different routes to consider when traveling from Columbus to Ashland, each with its own pros and cons. Let's break down the most common routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one.

Route 1: I-71 N

The most direct route from Columbus to Ashland is taking I-71 N. This route is approximately 90 miles and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. With current gas prices at $3.00 per gallon, it can cost around $16.20 for a round trip. There are no tolls on this route, making it a cost-effective option for travelers.

Route 2: SR-97 W

Another route to consider is taking SR-97 W from Columbus to Ashland. This route is approximately 100 miles and takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. With current gas prices at $3.00 per gallon, it can cost around $18.00 for a round trip. There are no tolls on this route, but the extra 10 miles may increase gas expenses.

Route 3: US-42 N

Traveling on US-42 N is another option for the trip from Columbus to Ashland. This route is approximately 110 miles and takes around 2 hours to complete. With current gas prices at $3.00 per gallon, it can cost around $19.80 for a round trip. There are no tolls on this route, but the extra 20 miles may result in additional gas expenses.

Route 4: Combination of Routes

Some travelers may opt to take a combination of routes to reach Ashland, taking advantage of scenic stops or avoiding heavy traffic. This option may include a mix of highways and country roads, resulting in varying distances and gas expenses.

Recommendation

Based on the current gas prices and overall cost, the most cost-effective and efficient route from Columbus to Ashland is I-71 N. This route offers the shortest distance, no tolls, and the least amount of time on the road. With gas prices being a significant factor in travel costs, it is essential to choose a route that maximizes savings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, taking I-71 N from Columbus to Ashland is the most cost-effective and efficient route, especially given the current gas prices. With its shorter distance and no tolls, travelers can save time and money on their trip. It's important to consider the cost of travel when planning a trip, and I-71 N provides the best value in this case. Overall, the trip can be completed in around 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a quick and economical journey.