Driving Cost from Denver, Colorado to Lakewood, Colorado

A picture depicting a gas pump

Navigating the Cost of a Trip from Denver to Lakewood, Colorado: A Gas Price Perspective

Traveling from Denver to Lakewood, Colorado, is both accessible and straightforward, thanks to a variety of routes. However, with fluctuating gas prices, it’s essential to analyze the costs associated with each option. In this article, we will explore different routes, their respective distances, estimated costs based on current gas prices, and make recommendations for the most economical journey.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in Colorado hovers around $3.70 per gallon. This variable can significantly impact your travel costs, especially as you consider the fuel economy of your vehicle. Knowing your car's miles per gallon (MPG) can help you gauge the expenses for each route. For example, if your vehicle averages 25 MPG, you can expect to spend about $0.15 per mile on fuel costs.

Route Options

When planning your trip from Denver to Lakewood, you have two primary routes to consider: the I-25 S to US-6 W route and the W 6th Ave/US-6 route. Both routes offer different perspectives of Colorado, and selecting the right one can make your trip more enjoyable.

Route 1: I-25 South to US-6 West

  • Distance: Approximately 13 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on traffic)
  • Estimated Cost: $3.40 (based on 25 MPG)

Route Details

  1. Begin your journey on I-25 S from Denver.
  2. Merge onto US-6 W via exit 210B toward Golden.
  3. Continue on US-6 W, entering Lakewood.

This route takes you through a direct path, leading you along I-25, which is well-maintained and commonly used by commuters. The trip showcases the Denver skyline, especially beautiful at sunset, and you’ll pass the scenic area near the South Platte River.

Route 2: W 6th Ave/US-6

  • Distance: Approximately 14 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 25-30 minutes (depending on traffic)
  • Estimated Cost: $3.60 (based on 25 MPG)

Route Details

  1. Start your journey on W Colfax Ave toward W 6th Ave.
  2. Merge onto W 6th Ave and continue on the route until you reach Lakewood.

This route offers a more scenic drive through Denver neighborhoods and historic areas. However, it may involve more traffic lights and a higher chance of stop-and-go conditions, potentially increasing travel time.

Alternative Routes

While the above two routes dominate the travel scene between Denver and Lakewood, there are alternative paths worth mentioning for those who want a little detour. You can take Denver’s scenic roads through neighborhoods or visit parks along the way. However, these routes usually add more distance and travel time to your journey.

  • Route 3: Colorado Blvd to US-287
    • Distance: Approximately 17 miles
    • Estimated Cost: $4.30 (based on 25 MPG)

This detour provides a glimpse of local life, passing through vibrant neighborhoods and parks, but comes with a higher cost due to distance.

Fuel Cost Calculation Breakdown

To calculate fuel cost effectively, you can use this simple formula:

  1. Determine the distance of your chosen route.
  2. Divide the distance by your vehicle’s MPG.
  3. Multiply the result by the current gas price.

For example, using Route 1:

  1. Distance: 13 miles
  2. 13 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 0.52 gallons
  3. 0.52 gallons × $3.70 = $1.93 (rounded up for simplicity)

If you take Route 2:

  1. Distance: 14 miles
  2. 14 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 0.56 gallons
  3. 0.56 gallons × $3.70 = $2.07

This straightforward calculation shows that choosing your route wisely not only saves time but also cuts costs.

Recommendations and Best Route

Given the analysis of both routes, Route 1 (I-25 S to US-6 W) stands out as the best option for budget-conscious travelers. Not only does it have the shortest distance, resulting in a lower fuel cost, but it also often experiences less congestion than the alternative route. The relatively quick travel time allows you to enjoy your destination without spending excessive hours on the road.

Additional Cost Considerations

  • Tolls: Depending on your travel time, you might encounter tolls, especially if you choose less direct routes or travel during peak hours. Factor in potential additional costs when planning.
  • Vehicle Maintenance: Consider wear and tear on your vehicle. Shorter, less congested routes are generally better for your car's health.
  • Food and Drink: If you’re making a day trip, accounting for snacks or meals can affect overall travel costs.

Conclusion

Traveling from Denver to Lakewood, Colorado, offers a variety of scenic routes that cater to different preferences. By choosing the I-25 S to US-6 W route, you can minimize fuel costs while enjoying the journey within a brief travel time of around 20-25 minutes. Overall, with an estimated fuel cost of $3.40, this trip becomes an economical choice for daily commuters or weekend travelers alike. Whether you are on a casual day out or heading to visit friends, reaching Lakewood from Denver is both cost-effective and enjoyable.