Driving Cost from Dandridge, Tennessee to Knoxville, Tennessee

A picture depicting a gas pump

Understanding the Cost of a Trip from Dandridge to Knoxville, Tennessee: A Gas Price Perspective

Traveling between Dandridge and Knoxville, Tennessee, can be an enjoyable excursion, but knowing how much it will cost in terms of gas is essential for planning purposes. With fluctuating gas prices, it's crucial to assess your options carefully. This article explores different routes, their respective distances, estimated fuel costs, and ultimately recommends the best route for your journey.

Overview of the Journey

The distance between Dandridge and Knoxville is roughly 40 miles, depending on the route chosen. The journey can typically take anywhere from 35 minutes to an hour, making it a fairly simple drive. As of October 2023, the average gas price in Tennessee hovers around $3.25 per gallon. Calculating your fuel costs allows you to budget effectively for your trip and enjoy the beautiful Tennessee scenery along the way.

Route Options

Route 1: I-40 East

Distance and Time

I-40 East flows through Dandridge and is the most straightforward and direct route to Knoxville. The distance is approximately 40 miles. Depending on traffic, this route will take about 35 to 45 minutes.

Fuel Cost

To calculate fuel costs, first find out the average fuel economy of your vehicle. For example, if your car gets 25 miles per gallon, here's how to calculate the trip cost:

  1. Total miles: 40 miles
  2. Average MPG: 25
  3. Gallons needed: 40 miles / 25 MPG = 1.6 gallons
  4. Total cost: 1.6 gallons x $3.25 per gallon = $5.20

For a round trip, you would spend approximately $10.40.

Route 2: US-25E North

Distance and Time

Another option is to take US-25E North. This route meanders a bit more and can take about 50 minutes, covering approximately 42 miles.

Fuel Cost

Using the same fuel economy of 25 MPG:

  1. Total miles: 42 miles
  2. Gallons needed: 42 miles / 25 MPG = 1.68 gallons
  3. Total cost: 1.68 gallons x $3.25 per gallon = $5.46

For the round trip, expect to spend around $10.92.

Route 3: US-70 East

Distance and Time

The third alternative involves using US-70 East, which makes for a scenic drive through the countryside. This route extends the distance to about 50 miles and takes approximately one hour.

Fuel Cost

Maintaining a fuel economy of 25 MPG:

  1. Total miles: 50 miles
  2. Gallons needed: 50 miles / 25 MPG = 2 gallons
  3. Total cost: 2 gallons x $3.25 per gallon = $6.50

For a round trip, you should budget about $13.00.

Summary of Costs

Route Distance Estimated Time Gallons Used (Round Trip) Cost
I-40 East 40 miles 35-45 minutes 1.6 gallons $10.40
US-25E North 42 miles 50 minutes 1.68 gallons $10.92
US-70 East 50 miles 60 minutes 2 gallons $13.00

Best Route Recommendation

Considering both the fuel cost and travel time, I-40 East emerges as the most efficient route for traveling between Dandridge and Knoxville. This route offers a balance of speed and affordability, making it ideal for both casual trips and more planned outings.

Additional Costs to Consider

While gas is the primary expense for this trip, other costs may arise. If you plan to stop for food, drinks, or souvenirs, set aside additional budget for those. Furthermore, consider potential tolls or parking fees if you plan to visit specific sites in Knoxville.

Conclusion

In summary, the drive from Dandridge to Knoxville is not just a simple trip; it’s an opportunity to experience the beauty of Tennessee. Choosing I-40 East is the best option, balancing travel time and fuel expenses. The round trip averages around $10.40 for gas, making it an economical choice for families and individuals alike. Enjoy your journey while weaving through the scenic landscapes Tennessee offers, and safe travels!