The Cost of a Trip: Cottage Grove to Maplewood

Are you planning a trip from Cottage Grove to Maplewood, Minnesota and wondering about the cost of gas? With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it's essential to consider the cost of the trip, especially if you are on a budget. In this article, we will break down the different possible routes between Cottage Grove and Maplewood, highlighting the cost and distance of each one to help you determine the most efficient and cost-effective route.

Route 1: I-494 N

The first route we will explore is taking I-494 N from Cottage Grove to Maplewood. This 23-mile journey is the most direct route, with an estimated travel time of around 30 minutes without traffic. With the current average gas price in Minnesota being $3.00 per gallon, and the average fuel economy for a car in the United States being 24.9 miles per gallon, the cost of this trip would be approximately $7.35 for a round trip.

Route 2: US-61 N

Another possible route to consider is taking US-61 N from Cottage Grove to Maplewood. This route is slightly longer at 26 miles, with an estimated travel time of 35 minutes without traffic. Using the same average gas price and fuel economy, the cost of this trip would be approximately $7.85 for a round trip.

Route 3: Local Roads

If you prefer to take the scenic route and avoid the highways, you can take local roads such as Keats Avenue S and Geneva Avenue S from Cottage Grove to Maplewood. This route is approximately 27 miles and would take around 40 minutes to travel without traffic. The cost of this trip would be similar to Route 2, coming in at approximately $7.85 for a round trip.

Recommended Route

Based on the cost and distance of each route, the most cost-effective and efficient option is Route 1, taking I-494 N from Cottage Grove to Maplewood. Not only is it the shortest route in terms of mileage, but it also has the quickest estimated travel time. Considering the rising gas prices, minimizing the distance traveled is crucial in saving money on fuel costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, taking I-494 N from Cottage Grove to Maplewood is the recommended route as it offers the shortest distance and the most efficient travel time. At the current average gas price in Minnesota, the estimated cost for a round trip would be approximately $7.35. Keep in mind that these costs may vary depending on the fuel economy of your vehicle and any potential changes in gas prices. Overall, with careful planning and consideration of the cost of gas, your trip between Cottage Grove and Maplewood can be both budget-friendly and enjoyable. Safe travels!