The Cost of a Road Trip from Canton, Connecticut, to New Haven, Connecticut

Taking a road trip between Canton and New Haven can be a great way to explore the scenic beauty of Connecticut. It may seem like a short distance, but choosing the best route can save you both time and money. This article will break down the cost and distance of different routes, provide recommendations, and finally, give you an overall conclusion on the best way to make the trip.

Possible Routes

There are several routes you can take to travel from Canton to New Haven, including using highways, back roads, and scenic routes. Here are three widely followed routes:

Route 1: Via Interstate 91 (I-91)

I-91 is the most frequently used route between Canton and New Haven. The route goes south in the direction of New Haven and can be accessed at exit 39 in Windsor, which is nearly 12 miles away from Canton. The total distance is approximately 38 miles, and you can expect to reach your destination in about an hour, depending on traffic. This route is ideal if you're looking for a quick and straightforward way to reach New Haven.

Route 2: Via Route 10

Route 10 runs parallel to I-91 and is a good alternative to avoid the busy highway. It also connects Canton and New Haven, albeit indirectly. You'll need to take several smaller roads to get to Route 10, which takes you southeast towards New Haven. In total, the distance is nearly 47 miles, but you can enjoy a less busy, scenic drive. The trip should take around one and a half hours, depending on traffic.

Route 3: Via Route 69 and Route 34

This route combines the scenic beauty of Route 69 with the convenience of Route 34. You'll have to travel on Route 69 until the intersection of Route 34, where you'll turn right and continue to New Haven. This route is ideal for those who want to include a long drive along scenic roads. However, it should be noted that this route is longer than the previous routes and is approximately 56 miles. You can expect to reach New Haven within two hours, depending on traffic.

Cost Comparison

The cost of a road trip depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle you're using, the fuel economy, and gas prices. Gas prices in Connecticut have known to fluctuate, but to provide a more accurate estimate, we'll use the current average gas price of $2.91 per gallon, according to AAA.

Route 1: Via Interstate 91 (I-91)

If you're using a small car that gets around 25 miles per gallon of gas, it will cost you nearly $11.5 in gas to travel between Canton and New Haven. This estimate is based on each way and assumes that you will drive back to Canton. If you're using an SUV that gets 18 miles per gallon, it will cost you around $15.65 in gas for the round trip.

Route 2: Via Route 10

Using Route 10 will add around 9 miles to your trip, and in turn, more fuel costs. Assuming you are traveling roundtrip in a small car that has an efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of your journey would be around $14.6. In an SUV that has an efficiency of 18 miles per gallon, the cost of the journey would increase to almost $20 for the round trip.

Route 3: Via Route 69 and Route 34

This route is longer and is nearly 56 miles, which means more fuel consumption. Assuming you are using a small car that gets around 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to pay around $18 for the round trip. In an SUV that has an efficiency of 18 miles per gallon, the cost jumps to around $25 in total.

Recommendation

Based on the cost and distance of each route, I-91 may be the most cost-effective and convenient route for those looking to reach New Haven quickly. It has the shortest distance and takes an hour to reach New Haven. However, if you're an adventurous traveler and want to take the scenic route, then Route 69 and Route 34 are ideal. It offers stunning views of the countryside but at the cost of more time and fuel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling between Canton and New Haven is an enjoyable and affordable trip for Connecticut residents and visitors. There are various routes you can take to reach your destination, each with its unique benefits. I-91 is the most cost-effective and the quickest way to get to New Haven, while Route 69 and Route 34 offer a scenic route with beautiful views of the Connecticut countryside. Nevertheless, whichever route you choose, it's a trip that will undoubtedly leave an indelible memory in your mind – and won't break the bank!