The Cost of a Trip between Cape Elizabeth, Maine and Alfred, Maine: Navigating Gas Prices

If you're planning a trip between Cape Elizabeth and Alfred in Maine, one of the biggest considerations will be the cost of gas. As of September 2021, gas prices in Maine average around $3.14 per gallon, up from an average of $2.19 per gallon in September 2020. This increase means that any route you choose will likely be significantly more expensive than it would have been a year ago. In this article, we'll take a look at the different possible routes between these two towns, their distances, and their estimated costs based on current gas prices.

Route Option 1: I-95 S and ME-111

One of the most direct routes between Cape Elizabeth and Alfred is to take I-95 S and then turn off onto ME-111, which will take you directly into Alfred. The total distance of this route is 41.5 miles, and it should take around 50 minutes to drive, assuming normal traffic conditions.

At current gas prices, the estimated cost of this trip would be around $6.75, assuming your car gets around 25 miles per gallon and gas prices at $3.14 per gallon.

Route Option 2: I-295 S and ME-35

Another possibility is to take I-295 S, which will eventually connect with ME-35, leading into Alfred. This route is slightly longer, at 44 miles, but may be preferable if you want to avoid driving on I-95. The estimated driving time for this route is around 55 minutes.

The estimated cost of this trip, based on current gas prices, is around $7.20 assuming your car gets around 25 miles per gallon.

Route Option 3: Along the Coast

If you're looking for a more scenic route, consider driving along the coast of Maine. Starting in Cape Elizabeth, you can take Route 77 S, which will eventually connect with Route 9 E and then Route 1. You can then turn onto Route 111 E, which will take you into Alfred.

While this route is the longest at 53 miles, it also offers plenty of picturesque views of the Maine coast. It should take around 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive, assuming normal traffic conditions.

At current gas prices, the estimated cost of this trip would be around $8.70, assuming your car gets around 25 miles per gallon.

Recommended Route

While it's ultimately up to personal preference, the most direct and cheapest route is likely the first option: taking I-95 S and then ME-111. While driving along the coast may be more scenic, it's also significantly longer and more expensive. Additionally, taking I-295 S and ME-35 may not be worth the extra mileage and time it takes to get to Alfred.

In Conclusion

The cost of gas is something to keep in mind when planning a trip, and the route you choose can have a big impact on your overall expenses. If you're traveling between Cape Elizabeth and Alfred, consider taking I-95 S and ME-111 for the most direct and cheapest option. However, if you're looking for a more scenic drive, the coastal route might be worth it. Just keep in mind that it will take longer and cost more in gas expenses. In any case, these three routes offer something for everyone's travel preferences, and with careful planning, you'll be able to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.