The Cost of a Trip Between Canton and Mattapoisett: Navigating the Maze of Routes with Current Gas Prices
When it comes to road trips in Massachusetts, navigating the maze of routes can be daunting. Getting from Canton to Mattapoisett, in particular, can be tricky as there are several possible routes and the costs can vary depending on current gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different routes available between Canton and Mattapoisett, highlighting the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.
Routes
Route 1: Via MA-24 S
The first route we'll explore is the most direct one, via MA-24 S. Starting from Canton, take I-93 S then MA-24 S towards Fall River. This route covers a distance of 42.5 miles and takes approximately 55 minutes to drive, assuming no traffic. However, this route is also the one with the highest tolls, totaling $7.40 one way for a car.
Route 2: Via I-95 S and MA-140 S
Another possible route is to take I-95 S and MA-140 S. This route covers a distance of 51.5 miles and takes approximately an hour to drive, assuming no traffic. The advantage of this route is that it does not involve any toll roads. However, it is also not as direct as Route 1, as it goes further east before going south.
Route 3: Via I-95 S and US-6 E
A third possible route is to take I-95 S and US-6 E towards Cape Cod. This route covers a distance of 54.5 miles and takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to drive, assuming no traffic. One advantage of this route is that it passes through some scenic areas such as the town of Wareham. However, it also has the highest distance and does not involve any toll roads.
Costs
When it comes to the cost of driving between Canton and Mattapoisett, the biggest factor is current gas prices. According to GasBuddy, the current average price of regular unleaded gas in Massachusetts is $2.82 per gallon. Assuming an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, the following table shows the estimated gas cost for each route based on current prices:
| Route | Distance | Gas Cost |
|---|---|---|
| MA-24 S (with tolls) | 42.5 mi | $6.05 |
| I-95 S and MA-140 S | 51.5 mi | $7.35 |
| I-95 S and US-6 E | 54.5 mi | $7.80 |
It is worth noting that the gas cost estimates are based on ideal driving conditions, such as no traffic or detours. Moreover, the gas cost will vary based on the vehicle's gas mileage and current gas prices.
Recommendation
Based on the distance, travel time, and cost, we recommend taking Route 2 via I-95 S and MA-140 S. While it is not as direct as Route 1, it also does not involve any toll roads, which can save up to $14.80 for a round trip. Furthermore, Route 3 includes a longer distance and does not involve a significant reduction in travel time or costs compared to Route 2.
Conclusion
In summary, driving between Canton and Mattapoisett can be a challenge, but it does not have to be expensive. By exploring the different routes available and estimating the gas cost based on current gas prices, we've determined that Route 2 via I-95 S and MA-140 S is the most cost-effective route, saving up to $14.80 in tolls compared to Route 1. Moreover, the travel time is comparable to the other routes and provides a less stressful driving experience while navigating the maze of routes.