Driving Cost from Denver, Colorado to Johnstown, Colorado

A picture depicting a gas pump

Navigating Costs: A Trip from Denver to Johnstown, Colorado on a Budget

Planning a trip from Denver to Johnstown, Colorado, involves considering not just the destination but also the route you take and the costs associated with it. Gas prices fluctuate, so understanding fuel expenses becomes essential for budgeting your journey. This article explores various routes, their respective costs, and recommendations to optimize your travel experience.

Overview of the Trip

The distance between Denver and Johnstown is approximately 60 miles. Depending on traffic and the route chosen, the journey can take anywhere from 50 minutes to over an hour. Choosing the right route can also significantly influence the overall cost of your trip, primarily through fuel expenses.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price across Colorado leans toward approximately $3.80 per gallon. Depending on your vehicle's miles per gallon (MPG), this value changes, impacting your total travel cost. For this article, let’s consider three common vehicle fuel efficiencies: 20 MPG, 25 MPG, and 30 MPG.

Using these variables, we can calculate the cost of gas for your trip.

Cost Estimation Formula

  1. Distance to Johnstown: 60 miles (one way)
  2. Round Trip Distance: 120 miles
  3. Fuel Cost: ( \text / \text ) x \text

Let's calculate the gas costs based on different fuel efficiencies.

Route Options

Route 1: I-25 North

  1. Overview: Taking Interstate 25 North is the most straightforward and quickest way to reach Johnstown from Denver.
  2. Distance: Approximately 60 miles (one way), 120 miles (round trip).
  3. Estimated Travel Time: 50-60 minutes without heavy traffic.
  4. Cost Calculation:
    • 20 MPG: ( 120 / 20 = 6 ) gallons × $3.80 = $22.80
    • 25 MPG: ( 120 / 25 = 4.8 ) gallons × $3.80 = $18.24
    • 30 MPG: ( 120 / 30 = 4 ) gallons × $3.80 = $15.20
  5. Description: The I-25 North route is well-maintained, with easy access to rest areas and gas stations if you need them along the way.

Route 2: US-287 North

  1. Overview: This route takes you via US-287 North, traversing parts of suburban life and agricultural fields.
  2. Distance: Approximately 60 miles (one way), 120 miles (round trip).
  3. Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
  4. Cost Calculation:
    • 20 MPG: ( 120 / 20 = 6 ) gallons × $3.80 = $22.80
    • 25 MPG: ( 120 / 25 = 4.8 ) gallons × $3.80 = $18.24
    • 30 MPG: ( 120 / 30 = 4 ) gallons × $3.80 = $15.20
  5. Description: This route is less direct but allows you to see more of the countryside. Traffic can be heavier around Fort Collins which may increase travel time.

Route 3: Alternate State Highways

  1. Overview: Several state highways lead from Denver to Johnstown, providing an alternative scenic route.
  2. Distance: Approximately 70 miles (one way), 140 miles (round trip).
  3. Estimated Travel Time: About 1 hour and 10 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  4. Cost Calculation:
    • 20 MPG: ( 140 / 20 = 7 ) gallons × $3.80 = $26.60
    • 25 MPG: ( 140 / 25 = 5.6 ) gallons × $3.80 = $21.28
    • 30 MPG: ( 140 / 30 = 4.67 ) gallons × $3.80 = $17.71
  5. Description: While this route is longer, it offers a chance to explore small towns and beautiful landscapes. The trade-off for increased distance may come in the form of additional costs.

Comparing Route Costs

Route Distance (Round Trip) 20 MPG Cost 25 MPG Cost 30 MPG Cost
I-25 North 120 miles $22.80 $18.24 $15.20
US-287 North 120 miles $22.80 $18.24 $15.20
Alternate State Highways 140 miles $26.60 $21.28 $17.71

While all routes have their unique charm, I-25 North stands out as the best option due to its balance of distance, cost, and travel time. It provides a straightforward journey with a good road surface and access to amenities.

Conclusion

Traveling from Denver to Johnstown, Colorado, can be a delightful experience when you plan carefully. Depending on your vehicle's efficiency, the trip can cost anywhere from $15.20 to $22.80 for fuel. The route via I-25 North, taking about 50 to 60 minutes, presents the best combination of cost-effectiveness and travel speed. So pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road for an enjoyable journey to Johnstown!