The Cost of a Trip between Chatham, New Hampshire and Wells, Maine
Introduction
Planning a trip from Chatham, New Hampshire to Wells, Maine? Wondering how much it will cost you in terms of gas expenses? We've got you covered! In this article, we'll break down the various possible routes to take between these two beautiful New England towns and highlight the associated costs and distances for each one. We'll also recommend the best route based on current gas prices, ensuring you have an affordable and enjoyable journey.
Possible Routes
Route 1: Taking NH-16 North
The first possible route starts by taking NH-16 North from Chatham, New Hampshire. This scenic route will take you through picturesque towns and charming countryside. The distance between Chatham and Wells using this route is approximately 80 miles.
Route 2: NH-153 North to ME-25 East
Another option is to take NH-153 North from Chatham, New Hampshire, and then continue onto ME-25 East towards Wells, Maine. This route offers a slightly longer distance compared to Route 1, coming in at approximately 85 miles.
Route 3: I-93 North to I-95 South
For a quicker and more direct route, you can start by taking I-93 North from Chatham, New Hampshire, and then merge onto I-95 South towards Wells, Maine. This route is the shortest in terms of distance, spanning approximately 75 miles.
Calculating the Cost
To calculate the cost of your trip, we'll consider the average gas mileage of a typical car and the current gas prices in the region.
Average Gas Mileage
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average gas mileage for a passenger vehicle in the United States is around 24.9 miles per gallon (MPG). However, it's important to note that the actual gas mileage may vary depending on factors such as the type of vehicle, driving conditions, and road terrain.
For our calculations, we'll use the average gas mileage of 24.9 MPG.
Current Gas Prices
To determine the current gas prices, we recommend checking online resources such as GasBuddy or the Gas Price section of major mapping and navigation apps. Gas prices fluctuate frequently, so it's always a good idea to verify the most up-to-date prices before embarking on your journey.
For the purpose of this article, let's assume the current gas price is $2.50 per gallon.
Calculating the Cost
To calculate the cost of the trip, we'll divide the distance of each route by the average gas mileage and then multiply it by the current gas price.
Route 1: NH-16 North
Distance: 80 miles Average Gas Mileage: 24.9 MPG Gas Price: $2.50 per gallon
Cost = (Distance / Average Gas Mileage) * Gas Price Cost = (80 / 24.9) * 2.50 Cost ≈ $10.04
Route 2: NH-153 North to ME-25 East
Distance: 85 miles Average Gas Mileage: 24.9 MPG Gas Price: $2.50 per gallon
Cost = (Distance / Average Gas Mileage) * Gas Price Cost = (85 / 24.9) * 2.50 Cost ≈ $10.89
Route 3: I-93 North to I-95 South
Distance: 75 miles Average Gas Mileage: 24.9 MPG Gas Price: $2.50 per gallon
Cost = (Distance / Average Gas Mileage) * Gas Price Cost = (75 / 24.9) * 2.50 Cost ≈ $9.55
The Best Route
After analyzing the cost and distance of each route, we can conclude that Route 3, taking I-93 North to I-95 South, is the most cost-effective option based on current gas prices. This route offers a relatively shorter distance and would cost approximately $9.55 in gas expenses.
Moreover, Route 3 provides a direct and efficient path, allowing you to reach your destination faster. However, if you prefer a more scenic drive and have some time to spare, Routes 1 and 2 offer their own unique charms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Chatham, New Hampshire, and Wells, Maine greatly depends on the route you choose and the current gas prices. After analyzing the possible routes, we recommend taking Route 3, traveling via I-93 North and I-95 South, for its affordability and efficiency.
With a distance of approximately 75 miles, the trip would cost around $9.55 in gas expenses. Remember to consider other costs such as toll fees, food, and accommodation if necessary. We hope this information helps you plan your trip effectively and allows for a smooth and enjoyable journey through the picturesque landscapes of New England. Safe travels!