Cost of a Trip from Dundee to Wilsonville, Oregon: Navigating Gas Prices and Routes
Traveling from Dundee, Oregon to Wilsonville, Oregon, offers beautiful scenery and accessible routes along Oregon's picturesque landscape. However, understanding the distance traveled, the gas prices, and potential routes can help provide a clear picture of the overall trip cost. This article dives into various routes, their respective costs, and recommendations for the best travel path.
Overview of the Trip
Dundee is a small town in Yamhill County, known for its proximity to wineries and scenic views of the Willamette Valley. Wilsonville, located in Clackamas County, serves as a hub for businesses and is home to several parks and community areas. The distance between these two towns is approximately 23 to 30 miles, depending on which route you choose. With gas prices currently averaging around $4.30 per gallon in Oregon, we will calculate the trip's cost based on different routes and vehicle mileage.
Different Routes from Dundee to Wilsonville
Route 1: U.S. Route 99W
Distance: 25 miles
Estimated Time: 35 minutes
Cost: Approximately $5.20
Taking U.S. Route 99W provides a straightforward journey through the heart of the Willamette Valley. This route is relatively flat and features some beautiful farmland and vineyard views. Starting from Dundee, you will head south on Highway 99W, passing through Newberg and Sherwood, eventually connecting to Wilsonville.
Let’s calculate costs based on a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (MPG). With a total distance of 25 miles and gas prices at $4.30 per gallon, the cost is calculated as follows:
[ \text = \frac{\text}{\text} \times \text = \frac{25 \text}{25 \text} \times $4.30 = $5.20 ]
Route 2: I-5 South via Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
Distance: 30 miles
Estimated Time: 40 minutes
Cost: Approximately $6.40
This route takes you on I-5 South, providing the fastest option, typically. You’ll start from Dundee and take local roads to connect with I-5 toward Wilsonville. While this route is the longest in miles, it gives travelers the option to enjoy sites like the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge.
Using the same vehicle fuel economy of 25 MPG, the cost for this trip calculates as follows:
[ \text = \frac{30 \text}{25 \text} \times $4.30 = $6.40 ]
Route 3: Alternate Route through Canby
Distance: 28 miles
Estimated Time: 45 minutes
Cost: Approximately $6.00
Starting on the scenic highway, this route leads through Canby. Although it is slightly longer than Route 1, it brings a variety of vistas, including agricultural lands and small towns. You’ll start from Dundee traveling south toward Oregon Route 99E, leading through Canby and connecting with I-5 onto Wilsonville.
Using the same calculations:
[ \text = \frac{28 \text}{25 \text} \times $4.30 = $6.00 ]
Summary of Costs and Distances
| Route | Distance | Estimated Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Route 99W | 25 miles | 35 minutes | $5.20 |
| I-5 South via Tualatin River National Wildlife | 30 miles | 40 minutes | $6.40 |
| Alternate Route through Canby | 28 miles | 45 minutes | $6.00 |
Recommended Route
Based on distance, cost, and estimated travel time, U.S. Route 99W stands out as the most logical choice for travel between Dundee and Wilsonville. It balances efficiency with cost, while providing an enjoyable drive through scenic landscapes. Though the I-5 option offers speed, it is slightly longer and costs more with minimal scenic benefits compared to Route 99W.
Additional Considerations
While gas prices fluctuate, and travel habits can vary based on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, planning your trip through online calculators could benefit those interested in precision. Furthermore, taking into account traffic conditions, especially during rush hour, can impact your travel time on I-5.
Conclusion
Traveling from Dundee to Wilsonville, Oregon offers a delightful blend of rural charm and urban conveniences. The U.S. Route 99W provides an efficient route with the lowest gas cost at approximately $5.20, covering 25 miles in about 35 minutes. With beautiful surroundings and easier traffic conditions, this route earns its recommendation for visitors and commuters alike. Enjoy the drive and the sights along your journey!