Driving Cost from Detroit, Michigan to Denver, Colorado

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Road Trip Costs: From Detroit, Michigan to Denver, Colorado Based on Current Gas Prices

A road trip from Detroit, Michigan, to Denver, Colorado, offers an exciting adventure across diverse landscapes and cities. Before hitting the road, it's essential to understand the costs involved in this journey, particularly the price of gas. In this article, we'll explore various routes between these two cities, assess the distances and costs associated with each, and recommend the best option for your road trip.

Trip Overview

The distance between Detroit and Denver is about 1,000 miles, depending on your chosen route. With current gas prices hovering around $3.50 per gallon, you'll want to calculate the gas expenses accurately. Let's break down several possible routes for this trip, focusing on the cost and distance for each.

Route Options

1. I-70 Route via Indianapolis and St. Louis

Distance: Approximately 1,030 miles
Driving Time: About 15.5 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost: $110

The most popular route takes travelers south from Detroit. After passing through Toledo, Ohio, you would connect to I-70 through Indianapolis and continue on to St. Louis, Missouri, before heading west toward Denver.

Fuel Calculation:

  • The average fuel economy for most cars is around 25 miles per gallon.
  • To cover 1,030 miles, you'll need about 41 gallons of gas.
  • At $3.50 per gallon, you'll spend roughly $143.50 for gas.

2. I-80 Route via Toledo and Omaha

Distance: Approximately 1,200 miles
Driving Time: About 17.5 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost: $140

Another viable option is to take I-80, which is slightly longer and offers a different scenic experience. After leaving Detroit, you would head west toward Toledo, then follow I-80 through major cities like Toledo, Ohio, and Omaha, Nebraska, before finally arriving in Denver.

Fuel Calculation:

  • This route covers about 1,200 miles, which will require roughly 48 gallons of gas.
  • With gas prices at $3.50 per gallon, the fuel cost ramps up to about $168.

3. I-90 Route via Chicago

Distance: Approximately 1,100 miles
Driving Time: About 16 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost: $120

You can also choose the I-90 route, which takes you through Chicago. This path leads you from Detroit through different suburbs before connecting to I-90. You'll traverse through towns that provide unique dining options and pit stops along Lake Michigan before heading towards Madison and eventually crossing into Iowa.

Fuel Calculation:

  • Covering 1,100 miles requires around 44 gallons of gas.
  • At current gas prices, expect to spend approximately $154.

While each route has its merits, the I-70 route via Indianapolis and St. Louis stands out as the best option. Not only does it have the shortest distance, allowing for less time spent driving, but it also offers a variety of attractions along the way. From the vibrant life of Indianapolis to the rich culture and famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the detours provide fantastic opportunities to experience midwestern American culture.

Opting for the I-70 route means you can reach Denver for approximately $143.50 in fuel costs while enjoying the sights at various stops.

Additional Costs to Consider

While fuel is a significant part of your trip cost, other expenses come into play that you should consider when planning your road trip.

Accommodation

Given that a drive from Detroit to Denver can take approximately 15 to 18 hours, most travelers opt to take breaks and may choose to stay overnight. Hotel costs vary significantly based on location and timing:

  • Low-End Motel: $60-100 per night
  • Mid-Range Hotel: $100-180 per night
  • High-End Hotel: $180-300+ per night

If you plan to spend one night on the road, anticipate an accommodation cost ranging from $60 to $300+.

Food and Snacks

Don't forget to budget for meals and snacks during your trip. On a typical road trip, you may want to plan for around $10-15 per meal per person. If you opt for three meals per day, the projected food cost could range from $30 to $45 per day per person.

Tolls and Miscellaneous Costs

Depending on your chosen route, you might encounter toll roads, especially near urban areas or specific highways. If you choose the I-70 route, you can anticipate toll costs around $15-20 for the entire journey. It is also wise to have a small budget for extra costs like snacks, drinks, and any unforeseen expenses.

Final Cost Estimation

Let's summarize the costs based on the recommended I-70 route:

  • Fuel Cost: $143.50
  • Accommodation (1 night): $80 (average low-end hotel)
  • Food (2 people for 2 days): $120 (average cost)
  • Tolls and Miscellaneous Costs: $30

Total Estimated Trip Cost: Approximately $373.50 for two people

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Detroit, Michigan, to Denver, Colorado, traversing the scenic I-70 route offers the most efficient travel option. The journey will take around 15.5 hours to complete, ensuring that you cover about 1,030 miles filled with rich experiences and diverse landscapes. Anticipate a total cost of around $373.50, which includes fuel, accommodation, meals, and miscellaneous expenses. With the right planning, this trip can be an exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of the open road with the joy of exploration! Safe travels!