Driving Cost from Dunlap, Illinois to Madison, Wisconsin

A picture depicting a gas pump

Budgeting Your Road Trip: Driving from Dunlap, Illinois to Madison, Wisconsin Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can be exciting! If you're considering a journey from Dunlap, Illinois to Madison, Wisconsin, you likely want to know how much the drive will cost. Let’s take a closer look at a couple of popular routes, factoring in current gas prices and any tolls you might encounter along the way.

Route 1: The Direct Highway Route

One of the most straightforward options is taking US-151 N. This route is not only convenient, but it also gets you to Madison relatively quickly.

  • Distance: 135 miles

  • Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

  • Estimated Gas Cost:

    Assuming a vehicle fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, and with current gas prices around $3.50 per gallon, the calculation would be:

    [ 135 \text \div 25 \text = 5.4 \text ]

    [ 5.4 \text \times $3.50 = $18.90 ]

While there are no toll roads on this route, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside. Make sure to factor in any snacks or meals!

Route 2: The Scenic Backroads Option

If you prefer a more leisurely drive, consider taking the IL-78 N and WI-19 W route. This will take you through some beautiful Illinois and Wisconsin landscapes.

  • Distance: 145 miles

  • Time: 2 hours 40 minutes

  • Estimated Gas Cost:

    Performing the same fuel economy calculation:

    [ 145 \text \div 25 \text = 5.8 \text ]

    [ 5.8 \text \times $3.50 = $20.30 ]

This route may have a couple of minor tolls, perhaps totaling around $3, depending on the specific roads you choose. So, it’s a little more expensive, but you might just enjoy the extra sights along the way!

Toll Road Considerations

When planning your trip, remember that tolls can add to the overall cost. For the direct highway route, you won’t need to pay any tolls, which makes it a cost-effective choice. On the scenic route, however, keep that potential $3 toll in mind, nestled in your budget.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the direct highway route or the scenic backroads, traveling from Dunlap to Madison can be both enjoyable and affordable. Overall, you’re looking at around $18.90 for the direct route and $20.30 for the scenic option. With beautiful landscapes and charming stops along the way, your road trip promises to be a delightful experience—just make sure to fill up your tank before you hit the road! Happy travels!