Road Trip to the Twin Cities: Understanding the Cost of Driving from Denver to Minneapolis

Planning a road trip from the Mile High City to the heart of Minnesota? Get excited, because this journey promises breathtaking views and unique stops along the way! However, before hitting the road, let’s break down the costs associated with traveling from Denver, Colorado, to Minneapolis, Minnesota. With fluctuating gas prices, it’s smart to calculate your expenses ahead of time.

Route 1: The Direct I-70 E and I-80 E Route

Distance, Time, and Cost

One of the most popular routes is taking I-70 E and I-80 E. This direct path spans approximately 1,000 miles. You can expect to spend around 14 to 15 hours on the road, depending on traffic and breaks.

Now, let’s talk about costs. As of now, gas prices hover around $3.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 40 gallons of gas, which will cost you around $140. Additionally, there are some toll roads along the way, costing approximately $10. So, you’re looking at a total of about $150 for this route.

Route 2: The Scenic I-70 E and I-35 N Route

Distance, Time, and Cost

For those who prefer a more scenic route, you can take I-70 E and I-35 N. This route stretches about 1,050 miles and takes about 15 to 16 hours.

In terms of fuel costs, with gas prices still around $3.50 per gallon and your vehicle maintaining the same 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need approximately 42 gallons of gas, costing about $147. There are minimal tolls, likely around $5, making the total cost for this route approximately $152.

Route 3: The I-76 E and I-35 N Route for the Adventurous

Distance, Time, and Cost

If you’re looking for a blend of adventure and scenic beauty, consider taking I-76 E and I-35 N. This path also covers about 1,050 miles, similar to the scenic route, but might require around 16 hours of travel time, due to possible detours or traffic.

Again, with gas prices around $3.50 per gallon and your vehicle achieving 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need around 42 gallons, costing you about $147 for gas. Tolls for this route are minimal, typically around $5. Thus, your total cost would again be roughly $152.

Conclusion: What to Expect on Your Trip

Regardless of the route you choose, you can anticipate a fun-filled journey to Minneapolis. With the current gas prices and the distances you’ll be covering, budgeting around $150 to $152 for gas and additional tolls will keep your finances in check. Remember, these costs can vary, so it’s always a good idea to plan for a little extra just in case.

So gather your snacks, turn up the tunes, and enjoy the open road! Happy travels!