Road Trip from Arizona to Colorado: Calculating the Cost

If you're planning a road trip from Arizona to Colorado, it's important to consider the cost of gasoline, tolls, and other expenses. With the help of this guide, you'll be able to budget accordingly for your adventure.

Route One: The Fast Track

If you're looking to get to Colorado as quickly as possible, you'll want to take Route One. This route will take you through Albuquerque, New Mexico, and straight up to Denver.

Distance: Approximately 800 miles.

Travel Time: About 12 hours without stops.

Gas Cost: With the average price of gas in Arizona being around $3 per gallon and in Colorado around $2.50, you can expect to spend around $125 on gas for this route.

**Tolls: You'll encounter a few tolls on this route, totaling around $20.

Route Two: The Scenic Route

If you have a little more time and want to enjoy some breathtaking scenery along the way, Route Two is for you. This route will take you through Sedona, Flagstaff, and the San Juan National Forest.

Distance: Approximately 1,000 miles.

Travel Time: About 16 hours without stops.

Gas Cost: Since you'll be doing a little more meandering on this route, you'll spend a bit more on gas. Plan for around $175 in gas expenses.

Tolls: There are no significant tolls on this route.

Route Three: The Off-Road Route

If you're an adventure-seeker or have a vehicle capable of off-roading, Route Three is the perfect choice. This route will take you up through the Grand Canyon and through an off-road trail to Durango.

Distance: Approximately 700 miles.

Travel Time: About 15 hours without stops.

Gas Cost: With the off-roading aspect, this route is going to consume a bit of fuel. Plan for around $150 in gas expenses.

Tolls: There are no tolls on this route.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, the cost of driving from Arizona to Colorado varies depending on the route you take, how much gas your vehicle consumes, and whether or not you'll encounter tolls. It's always a good idea to budget a bit extra money for food, drinks, and any unexpected emergencies along the way. Regardless of which route you choose, always remember to be safe and have fun on your road trip!