The Cost of Driving From California to Montana: A Guide to Route Costs Based on Current Gas Prices

Driving from California to Montana can be a long and beautiful journey. With the right planning, you can make sure you're getting the most out of this trip without breaking the bank. To help you plan accordingly, we've put together a guide to the cost of driving from California to Montana, based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The I-5 N and I-90 E

Distance - 1,230 miles

Time - approximately 19 hours

Cost - ~$207 in gas

This route takes you through the wide-open spaces of Oregon and Idaho before crossing into Montana. Overall, this route is the fastest, but it skips some of the more scenic areas in favor of efficiency. Additionally, you'll need to pay for tolls on this route, so be sure to factor that into your budget.

Route 2: The Pacific Coast Highway and US-101 N

Distance - 1,650 miles

Time - approximately 34 hours

Cost - ~$335 in gas

This route takes you up the Pacific Coast Highway and through the Redwoods before meeting up with the I-5 and eventually the I-90. While the views are incredible, the route is more winding and will take you longer than the previous option. You'll also go through some areas without easy access to gas, so it's important to plan your pit stops accordingly.

Route 3: The I-15 N and I-90 E

Distance - 1,330 miles

Time - approximately 20 hours

Cost - ~$225 in gas

This route takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, with views of the rolling hills and snow-capped mountains. While similar in time to the I-5 route, the I-15 route will be less expensive overall. Keep in mind that there are some tolls on this route as well, and you'll need to watch your speed in some areas to avoid fines.

Route 4: The I-80 E and I-90 E

Distance - 1,550 miles

Time - approximately 25 hours

Cost - ~$270 in gas

This route is the least scenic of the four options, but it's also the most straightforward. You'll go through Wyoming and South Dakota before crossing into Montana, with plenty of gas and food stops along the way. Keep in mind that the I-80 has a lot of heavy truck traffic, which can make for slower travel in some areas.

Overall, the cost of driving from California to Montana can vary widely depending on the route you choose. By considering the time, distance, and gas prices, you can make the most informed decision and plan accordingly. Safe travels!