The Cape to Arlington Adventure: Options for Making the Trip

Are you planning a trip from Cape Elizabeth, Maine to Arlington, Virginia? Lucky for you, there are a variety of routes you can take for your travels. Depending on your preferences and how much time you have, you can choose from different paths to get to your destination.

Route 1: I-95

The most direct way to travel from Cape Elizabeth to Arlington is via I-95. This route spans a total of roughly 500 miles and will take approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes of driving time. This is the fastest and most efficient way to get there.

However, if you're looking to break up your car ride a bit, you'll have no shortage of options for stops. You'll drive through cities like Portland, Boston, and New Haven along the way, so you can always take a detour and check out some local attractions and landmarks.

Route 2: Maine Coastal Route

Those who want a more scenic trip can opt for the Maine Coastal Route. This route runs along the coast of Maine and ends up in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. From there, you'll head onto I-95 to continue your journey south.

Although this route is longer (over 600 miles), the natural beauty of the coast is definitely worth the extra time. From cute seaside towns to rugged beaches and lighthouses, there's plenty to stop and see along the way. Expect a total travel time of around 12 hours if you choose this option.

Route 3: Appalachian Trail

For adventure seekers, taking the Appalachian Trail, which runs from Maine to Georgia, might be the ultimate road trip. The Appalachian Trail spans over 2,100 miles in total, but a short section of it is accessible from Maine. You can start by getting on Route 4 in Farmington and head towards the mountains. Then, you can continue on Route 2 and head south.

Of course, not everyone has the time or energy to take on months of hiking, so this option is only for the extremely dedicated (and fit). But even if you just want to take a short hike and snap a few photos at a lookout point, this is definitely a scenic option. Keep in mind that the Appalachian Trail will be a multi-day trip to complete at least the Maine section.

Route 4: The Coast and the Eastern Shore

The coastal paths don't have to stop there. For beach lovers, consider taking Route 1 south all the way until you reach New Jersey. Then, from there, hop on the Garden State Parkway until you hit Route 50. This road will take you across the Chesapeake Bay and into Virginia, where you'll soon arrive at your destination.

If you take this route, you'll be treated to stunning seaside views for much of your trip. Plus, you can make pit stops in beach towns like Newport, Rhode Island and Cape May, New Jersey. You can also hit some big cities, like New York City and Baltimore, along the way if you have time.

Route 5: Take Your Pick

Of course, these routes are just a few examples of the different paths you can take to get from Cape Elizabeth, Maine to Arlington, Virginia. For some, the fastest and most direct route is the best option. Others might prefer to take it slow and enjoy the sites along the way.

Wherever your travels take you, make sure to pack snacks and games for the car ride, and take lots of pictures for the memories. Happy travels!