Driving Cost from City of Saratoga Springs, New York to Ellsworth, Maine

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between Saratoga Springs, NY and Ellsworth, ME: Navigating through Fuel Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip involves multiple factors, such as accommodation, food, and transportation costs. One of the major considerations for any road trip is the cost of fuel, a variable expense affected by the ever-changing gas prices. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the cost associated with a journey from Saratoga Springs, New York to Ellsworth, Maine, focusing on various possible routes, distances, and recommended options.

Route 1: The Direct Route

The most straightforward option for traveling from Saratoga Springs to Ellsworth is to take the direct route. Driving on I-87N and I-90E for 400 miles and then switching to I-95N for another 340 miles, this route covers approximately 740 miles and avoids any significant detours.

According to the US Department of Energy, the average fuel efficiency for a passenger vehicle falls around 24.9 miles per gallon (MPG). Assuming a fuel price of $3.50 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for the direct route would be:

740 miles / 24.9 MPG * $3.50/gallon = $103.99

Route 2: Scenic Route through the White Mountains

For those seeking a more scenic journey, the option of taking a detour through the White Mountains of New Hampshire presents a picturesque alternative. From Saratoga Springs, NY, drive north on I-87N to exit 23, then follow I-787N past Albany, and connect to I-90E. Continue on I-91N and I-89N until reaching Franconia, NH. From there, take Route 3 northbound to I-93N, winding through the White Mountains until it intersects with Route 2 in Shelburne. Follow Route 2 eastbound to Bangor, ME, and finally connect to Route 1A for the last stretch to Ellsworth.

This scenic route spans roughly 850 miles, adding an extra 110 miles compared to the direct route. However, considering the slower pace and the need to take in the picturesque surroundings, a lower average fuel efficiency of 22.5 MPG may be expected. With the same fuel price assumption, the estimated fuel cost for this scenic route would be:

850 miles / 22.5 MPG * $3.50/gallon = $133.78

Route 3: Coastal Route with Ferry Crossing

For travelers who enjoy the coastal scenery, a route that includes a ferry crossing over Penobscot Bay can be an attractive alternative. Starting from Saratoga Springs, NY, head east on Route 29 to I-787N and continue northwards until reaching Route 7N. Follow Route 7N along Lake Champlain until it connects with Route 2 in Vermont. Stay on Route 2E until reaching Burlington. From there, board the Lake Champlain Ferry to Port Kent, NY. Once in Port Kent, follow Route 9N until reaching the Village of Essex, where the Lake Champlain Ferry to Charlotte, VT is available. After arriving in Charlotte, VT, drive north on Route 7 and connect to I-89N, which will lead to I-91N. Continue on I-91N until reaching I-95N, and from there, follow I-395N to Route 1A, which will take you into Ellsworth, ME.

This route spans approximately 1,150 miles, presenting a longer journey than both the direct and scenic routes. However, the fuel efficiency might increase slightly to around 25.5 MPG as the expected average speed will be higher on highways. Using the same fuel cost assumption, the estimated fuel cost for this coastal route would be:

1,150 miles / 25.5 MPG * $3.50/gallon = $182.35

Among the aforementioned routes, the direct route stands out as the most efficient in terms of cost and distance. While it may lack the scenic beauty of the other options, it offers the shortest driving time with the least deviation. With an estimated fuel cost of $103.99, this route also grants travelers the opportunity to spend the saved money on other aspects of the trip, such as accommodations or local attractions.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip from Saratoga Springs, New York, to Ellsworth, Maine, requires careful consideration of the associated costs, particularly in terms of fuel expenses. Various routes offer diverse experiences, but the ultimate choice depends on individual preferences and priorities. The direct route, spanning 740 miles, proves to be the most cost-effective option with a fuel cost of approximately $103.99. While the scenic and coastal routes offer compelling landscapes and interesting detours, they increase the travel distance and the estimated expenses accordingly. Overall, the direct route is the optimal choice for travelers seeking efficiency and economy, allowing them to reach Ellsworth, Maine, in a reasonable time frame while keeping the fuel costs at a minimum.