Driving Cost from Denver, Colorado to Stockton, California

A picture depicting a gas pump

Road Trip Budget: Driving from Denver, Colorado to Stockton, California Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado, to Stockton, California, is an exciting adventure! But before you hit the open road, it's essential to understand the costs involved. In this post, we’ll break down the options available to you, including different routes, estimated distances, travel times, and the total cost based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-70 W to I-15 S

This route is one of the most direct ways to get from Denver to Stockton.

  • Distance: 1,140 miles
  • Time: 17 hours
  • Gas Prices: Assuming you’re driving a car that gets about 25 miles per gallon and current gas prices hover around $4.00 per gallon:
    • You would need approximately 46 gallons of gas, which would cost around $184.
  • Toll Prices: Fortunately, this route doesn’t have major tolls, so you can save some additional cash here!

With its breathtaking mountain views and scenic landscapes, this drive is not only efficient but also visually rewarding.

Route 2: I-80 W

If you're looking for a more scenic route that also gives you a taste of the wondrous landscapes of the Sierra Nevada, then this route could be the one for you.

  • Distance: 1,215 miles
  • Time: 18.5 hours
  • Gas Prices: Again, assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and gas prices around $4.00:
    • This route requires about 49 gallons of gas, costing around $196.
  • Toll Prices: Similar to Route 1, there are no significant tolls to worry about on this route.

Driving along I-80 allows you to experience diverse ecosystems, from high plains to mountain passes, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers.

Route 3: I-70 W to I-40 W

This is another enjoyable alternative that takes you through a mix of urban and rural landscapes.

  • Distance: 1,220 miles
  • Time: 19 hours
  • Gas Prices: With the same fuel efficiency and gas prices at $4.00:
    • You will need approximately 49 gallons of gas, costing about $196.
  • Toll Prices: Similar to previous routes, there are no major toll roads.

While this route might take a bit longer, it offers a unique experience with plenty of quirky roadside attractions along the way.

Final Thoughts

In summary, your road trip from Denver to Stockton can vary significantly in terms of distance, time, and cost. The fastest route (I-70 W to I-15 S) takes 1,140 miles and 17 hours, costing you around $184 for gas. The scenic route (I-80 W) spans 1,215 miles and 18.5 hours, totaling about $196 in gas. Lastly, the I-70 W to I-40 W route measures 1,220 miles and 19 hours, with an estimated gas cost of $196.

Make sure to factor in your food and accommodation costs when planning. Happy travels, and enjoy the journey ahead!