The Cost of a Trip Between Colorado and Montana: Navigating Gas Prices in 2021

Introduction

As gas prices fluctuate, it's important to consider the cost of a road trip when planning your travel. If you have plans to drive between Colorado and Montana in 2021, you'll want to factor in the current gas prices and the distance of the trip. This article will explore the different possible routes between these two states and highlight the cost and distance of each one. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of the best route to take based on today's gas prices.

Route Options

When planning a trip between Colorado and Montana, there are several route options to choose from. Each route offers its own unique scenery, attractions, and driving conditions. Let's take a look at the main routes and the associated cost and distance.

Route 1: I-25 N to I-90 W

One of the most direct routes between Colorado and Montana is to take I-25 North and then merge onto I-90 West. This route takes you through Wyoming and into Montana, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the open plains. The total distance for this route is approximately 660 miles, with the cost of gas varying depending on the current prices.

Route 2: US-287 N to US-87 N

For a more scenic drive, you can opt to take US-287 North and then connect to US-87 North. This route takes you through the heart of Wyoming and Montana, providing opportunities to see the natural beauty of both states. The total distance for this route is approximately 720 miles, with the cost of gas again fluctuating based on current prices.

Route 3: I-80 W to I-90 W

Another option is to take I-80 West and then merge onto I-90 West. This route takes you through Wyoming and into Montana, offering a mix of scenic views and efficient travel. The total distance for this route is approximately 800 miles, with the cost of gas being a key factor in the overall trip expenses.

Gas Prices and Cost Analysis

As of 2021, gas prices have been on the rise, impacting the overall cost of road trips. The cost of gas can vary greatly depending on the current market conditions, so it's crucial to consider this when planning a trip between Colorado and Montana. Let's analyze the cost of each route based on today's gas prices.

Route 1 Cost Analysis

Using an average gas price of $3.00 per gallon and a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon, the cost of gas for Route 1 would be approximately $79.20 for the entire trip. Keep in mind that these numbers will fluctuate as gas prices change.

Route 2 Cost Analysis

For Route 2, the cost of gas using the same average price and vehicle efficiency would be approximately $86.40 for the entire trip. Again, this number is subject to change based on gas prices.

Route 3 Cost Analysis

Lastly, for Route 3, the cost of gas using the same average price and vehicle efficiency would be approximately $96.00 for the entire trip. Similar to the other routes, this cost is dependent on the current gas prices.

Recommended Route

Based on the cost and distance analysis, the recommended route for a trip between Colorado and Montana in 2021 is Route 1, taking I-25 North to I-90 West. This route offers a good balance of distance, cost, and driving efficiency, making it a top choice for travelers looking to navigate today's gas prices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Colorado and Montana is heavily influenced by the current gas prices. By choosing an efficient route and factoring in the cost of gas, travelers can budget accordingly for their road trip. Route 1, taking I-25 North to I-90 West, is the recommended route based on today's gas prices, offering a balance of distance and cost. Safe travels!