The Cost of a Trip from Cape Saint Claire to Wheaton based on Current Gas Prices

If you're planning a trip from Cape Saint Claire to Wheaton, you might be wondering how much it will cost you in terms of gas. This article will break down the different possible routes, their respective distances and costs, and recommend the best option.

Route 1: I-97 and I-495

The first route option is to take I-97 north and then merge onto I-495 (also known as the Capital Beltway) east. This route is straightforward and takes you directly to Wheaton. The total distance is approximately 35 miles, and with gas prices currently averaging around $2.80 per gallon, you can expect to spend about $6.00 in gas each way.

Route 2: US-50 and I-495

Another option is to take US-50 west and then merge onto I-495 north. This route might be more convenient for people living in the southern parts of Cape Saint Claire. The total distance is around 40 miles, and you'll probably spend approximately $7.00 in gas each way.

Route 3: MD-97 and I-495

If you prefer to avoid the highway, you can take MD-97 north and then merge onto I-495 east. This route takes you through downtown Annapolis, so it might be a good option if you want to stop and explore the city on your way to Wheaton. The total distance is around 45 miles, and you might spend approximately $8.00 in gas each way.

Route 4: US-50 and MD-650

Finally, you can take US-50 west and then switch to MD-650 north. This route is the longest, with a total distance of about 50 miles. It might be a good option if you are looking for a more scenic route, as MD-650 takes you through parts of the Patuxent Research Refuge. Gas prices may fluctuate depending on the gas station you stop at, but you can expect to spend approximately $9.00 in gas each way.

Best Route: I-97 and I-495

All four routes have their advantages and disadvantages, but based on distance and gas cost, the best route is probably I-97 and I-495. Not only is this route the shortest and most direct, but it also has the lowest gas cost of all the options. Additionally, traffic on the Capital Beltway tends to flow relatively well, so you probably won't encounter too many delays.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you're planning a trip from Cape Saint Claire to Wheaton and want to factor in the cost of gas, you can expect to spend between $6.00 and $9.00 each way depending on which route you choose. While all four options have their pros and cons, the I-97 and I-495 route is probably the best choice in terms of cost and efficiency. Regardless of which route you take, however, the trip should take no more than an hour under normal traffic conditions.