Driving Cost from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Rapid City, South Dakota

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Rapid City, South Dakota: A Road Trip Breakdown

Are you considering a road trip from Downtown Kansas City to Rapid City? Well, buckle up! This journey not only offers beautiful scenery but also comes with various costs to consider. With current gas prices hovering around $3.50 per gallon, let’s explore two popular routes, including distances, travel times, and overall costs.

Route 1: I-70 W to I-29 N to I-90 W

Overview

This route is one of the most straightforward ways to make your way to Rapid City. It lets you enjoy a smooth ride along major interstates.

  • Distance: 600 miles
  • Time: 9 hours
  • Estimated Gas Cost: Approximately $70

Cost Breakdown

This route takes you through the heart of Kansas and a slice of Nebraska before crossing into South Dakota. Assuming your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you would need about 24 gallons of gas. At current prices of $3.50 per gallon, the total gas cost comes to about $84.

Furthermore, this route doesn’t include any tolls, which is a win for your wallet!

Route 2: I-70 W through I-80 W

Overview

Another option is to zip along I-70 W and then hop onto I-80 W. While this route adds a few more miles, it offers picturesque views along the way.

  • Distance: 620 miles
  • Time: 9 hours and 30 minutes
  • Estimated Gas Cost: Approximately $75

Cost Breakdown

On this route, you’ll cover 620 miles total, which works out to about 25 gallons of fuel. Multiplying that by the average gas price of $3.50, you’re looking at a fuel cost of approximately $87.50.

Keep in mind that this route also has no tolls, making it another budget-friendly option.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the cost of driving from Downtown Kansas City to Rapid City can vary slightly based on the route you choose. The first route, while slightly shorter, is more economical in gas, whereas the second offers a wider array of scenic views despite being a bit longer.

Whether you opt for the quicker route or take the scenic detour, you can expect to spend anywhere from $70 to $87.50 on gas alone for this journey. Now that you know the costs and travel times, you’re one step closer to hitting the open road. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure to Rapid City!