Outlet prices comparable to retailers' sales. (factory outlets)

Is it really worth the drive?

More than 200,000 people have flocked to the new Castle Rock Factory Shops since their Nov. 20 opening, at times backing up traffic on Interstate 25 for more than a mile.

Many shoppers assumed the bargains available at Castle Rock made the time and expense of a long trip worthwhile, but they may be mistaken. A close examination reveals that they might save just as much by taking advantage of sales closer to home.

Factory outlets draw customers by promising bargain-basement prices on brand-name merchandise they normally purchase at department stores. While the everyday prices at the Castle Rock outlet stores are lower than …