The Cost of a Road Trip from Ajax to Peterborough: A Comparison of Routes Based on Gas Prices
Are you planning a road trip from Ajax to Peterborough in Ontario? Whether you're visiting family, going on a weekend getaway, or exploring the beautiful countryside, it's always important to consider the cost of your journey. Gas prices vary widely in Canada, and your choice of route and vehicle can significantly impact your budget. In this article, we'll explore the different ways you can travel between Ajax and Peterborough and compare the cost and distance of each option based on current gas prices.
Route 1: Highway 401 and Highway 115
The most direct and popular route from Ajax to Peterborough is via Highways 401 and 115. This route covers a distance of approximately 145 kilometers and takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete, depending on traffic conditions. To calculate the cost of this trip, we'll assume that you're driving a car that averages 9 liters/100 kilometers and that gas prices in Ontario are currently around $1.30 per liter.
The total cost of gas for this route is therefore:
145 km ÷ 100 km/l × 9 l/100 km × $1.30/l = $16.64
Note that this estimate doesn't include any additional expenses such as tolls, parking fees, or food and accommodation along the way.
Route 2: Highway 407 and Highway 115
Another option for traveling between Ajax and Peterborough is via Highway 407 and Highway 115. This route covers a slightly longer distance of about 160 kilometers but may offer a faster and less congested journey, particularly during rush hour or weekends. However, there are tolls to consider when using Highway 407, which can significantly increase the overall cost of the trip.
To calculate the cost of this route, we'll assume that you'll be taking the full-length of Highway 407, which currently charges a rate of $0.27/km for light vehicles. Here's how the cost of gas and tolls breaks down:
Highway 407: 107 km × $0.27/km = $28.89
Highway 115: 53 km ÷ 100 km/l × 9 l/100 km × $1.30/l = $6.10
Total cost: $28.89 + $6.10 = $34.99
As you can see, the cost of using Highway 407 can significantly outweigh the benefit of avoiding traffic congestion. Additionally, tolls on this route can vary depending on the time of day and the method of payment, so double-check the current rates before you hit the road.
Route 3: Rural Roads via Durham and Northumberland Counties
If you prefer a more scenic or leisurely route from Ajax to Peterborough, you could consider traveling via some of the rural or country roads that pass through Durham and Northumberland counties. These routes may offer a chance to explore some lovely small towns, historic landmarks, or natural attractions along the way, but they may also involve some winding roads, slower speeds, and higher fuel consumption.
To estimate the cost of this route, we'll assume that you'll be taking a 180-kilometer course that passes through towns such as Bowmanville, Newcastle, Port Hope, and Cobourg. We'll also assume that you're driving a car that averages 11 liters/100 kilometers on rural roads, which requires slightly more fuel per kilometer than on the highways.
The total cost of gas for this route is therefore:
180 km ÷ 100 km/l × 11 l/100 km × $1.30/l = $25.08
Again, this estimate doesn't include any additional expenses that you may incur, such as parking fees, food and drinks, or accommodations en route.
Route 4: Combination of Highways and Rural Roads
A final option for traveling between Ajax and Peterborough is to combine some of the highways and rural roads available, depending on your preferences and priorities. For example, you might start by taking Highway 401 but then exit at Bowmanville and continue on County Road 57 toward Port Hope, before rejoining Highway 115 near Millbrook. This route can offer a mix of speed, scenery, and distance, but it may require some time and planning to navigate the various turns and exits.
To estimate the cost of this route, we'll assume that you'll travel a distance of 170 kilometers, split between highways and rural roads, with an average fuel consumption of 10 liters/100 kilometers.
The total cost of gas for this route is therefore:
Highway 401: 38 km ÷ 100 km/l × 9 l/100 km × $1.30/l = $4.42
County Road 57: 72 km ÷ 100 km/l × 11 l/100 km × $1.30/l = $10.66
Highway 115: 60 km ÷ 100 km/l × 9 l/100 km × $1.30/l = $7.02
Total cost: $22.10
Keep in mind that this estimate doesn't include any tolls that you may incur if you take Highway 407 or any other detours or variations that are possible along this route.
Conclusion
After comparing the various routes available between Ajax and Peterborough, it's clear that each option has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, distance, time, and scenery. Ultimately, the best route for you will depend on your budget, preferences, and priorities. If you're in a rush and want to get to Peterborough as quickly as possible, the highways may be your best bet, while if you're looking for a relaxed and scenic journey, you may prefer the rural roads. Regardless of your choice, make sure to factor in all the costs and potential disruptions to your travel plans when planning your trip and enjoy the ride!