The Scenic Drive: Traveling from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to the Town of Ellenburg, New York

Are you ready for a picturesque road trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to the charming Town of Ellenburg in New York? This journey promises beautiful scenery, interesting pit stops, and the opportunity to explore two incredible countries. But before you hit the road, it's important to plan your routes and estimate the travel time. Read on to find out the fastest and slowest routes, their respective distances, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

Fastest Route: Take the I-81 S

If your main focus is reaching your destination quickly, the I-81 S should be your go-to route. Covering a distance of approximately 117 miles, this direct highway route typically takes around 2 hours with normal traffic conditions. However, during peak traffic times, the travel duration can increase to around 2.5-3 hours. So, make sure to plan accordingly if you're traveling during rush hour.

Scenic Route: Venture Through the Adirondack Mountains

For those who prefer a more leisurely drive, we recommend taking the scenic route through the stunning Adirondack Mountains. Begin by heading south on the Highway 416 and then merge onto the Route 16 S. This scenic drive covers a distance of about 150 miles and offers breathtaking views along the way.

While the Adirondack Mountains route takes slightly longer than the I-81 S route, the extra time spent is well worth it. You can anticipate a travel time of approximately 3-3.5 hours, depending on traffic. Remember, this route can have winding roads, so take your time to soak in the beauty and enjoy the journey rather than rushing towards your destination.

A Combination of Routes: The Best of Both Worlds

If you're looking to strike a balance between speed and scenic beauty, why not opt for a combination of routes? Start by taking the I-81 S route mentioned earlier, which provides a quick passage. After around 55 miles, exit onto the Route 3 S, which will lead you through some picturesque towns and captivating landscapes of the North Country.

This mix of routes covers a distance of approximately 135 miles, and you can expect a driving time of around 3 hours in normal traffic conditions. During peak traffic times, add an extra half-hour to your travel time. This way, you can enjoy a comfortable drive while taking in the charming sights along the way.

Timing Is Everything: Low Traffic vs. Peak Traffic

The time it takes to drive from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to the Town of Ellenburg, New York, can vary greatly depending on traffic patterns. If you're looking to avoid heavy congestion, consider planning your drive during low traffic times, such as early mornings or late evenings. During these hours, expect the minimum travel time mentioned earlier for each route — that's 2 hours for I-81 S, 3-3.5 hours for the Adirondack Mountains route, and around 3 hours for the combination of routes.

On the other hand, if you're unable to avoid peak traffic hours, it's best to be prepared. During mornings and evenings, rush-hour traffic can significantly impact your journey, potentially extending your travel time by up to 30 minutes or more. Make sure to account for these delays when planning your departure time, allowing yourself extra time for unexpected hold-ups.

So, whether you prioritize a quick arrival, want to take in breathtaking scenery, or aim for the perfect balance, choose the route that suits your needs. Plan your departure time wisely, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to the Town of Ellenburg, New York! Safe travels!