Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Delaware Township to Huntingdon, Pennsylvania: A Gas Price Perspective
Traveling from Delaware Township, Pennsylvania, to Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, can be an enjoyable and eye-opening experience. However, understanding the costs associated with the trip—especially with current gas prices—can help you make a more informed decision. In this article, we'll explore different routes, distances, costs, and suggestions for the best way to get there.
Overview of the Journey
The trip from Delaware Township to Huntingdon spans approximately 150-160 miles, depending on the route selected. As is common with most travel, fuel costs will be one of the most significant expenses. For the sake of this article, we'll assume that the current average gas price in Pennsylvania is $3.50 per gallon, and we'll calculate fuel costs based on the assumption that your vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon (MPG).
Route Options
Route 1: Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)
The first and most straightforward route involves taking Interstate 76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike), which is known for being well-maintained and offering multiple rest areas.
- Distance: Approximately 160 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours (without heavy traffic)
- Toll Costs: Approximately $20 (varies by entry and exit points)
- Fuel Cost:
- Total miles: 160 miles
- Gallons needed: 160 miles / 25 MPG = 6.4 gallons
- Fuel cost: 6.4 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $22.40
Total Estimated Cost: $20 (tolls) + $22.40 (fuel) = $42.40
Route 2: US-322 East
A second option involves traveling along US-322 East. This route winds through scenic rural areas and offers beautiful views but can be less direct.
- Distance: Approximately 150 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: About 3 to 3.5 hours
- Toll Costs: Free
- Fuel Cost:
- Total miles: 150 miles
- Gallons needed: 150 miles / 25 MPG = 6 gallons
- Fuel cost: 6 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $21.00
Total Estimated Cost: $0 (tolls) + $21.00 (fuel) = $21.00
Route 3: Route 75
The third option is a more local route utilizing Route 75, which travels through smaller towns and offers a different perspective of Pennsylvania's countryside.
- Distance: Approximately 155 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: About 3 to 3.5 hours
- Toll Costs: Free
- Fuel Cost:
- Total miles: 155 miles
- Gallons needed: 155 miles / 25 MPG = 6.2 gallons
- Fuel cost: 6.2 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $21.70
Total Estimated Cost: $0 (tolls) + $21.70 (fuel) = $21.70
Summary of Costs and Distances
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) | 160 | 2.5-3 hours | $42.40 |
| US-322 East | 150 | 3-3.5 hours | $21.00 |
| Route 75 | 155 | 3-3.5 hours | $21.70 |
Recommendations
Among the three routes, the US-322 East option stands out as the best choice for several reasons. Not only does it save you over $20 in toll costs, making your trip more budget-friendly, but it also allows you to enjoy a more scenic and pleasant drive without the stress of heavy truck traffic that often plagues the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Although the journey might be a little longer in terms of driving time, the difference is minimal, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beautiful Pennsylvania landscape.
Conclusion
Traveling from Delaware Township to Huntingdon provides not just an opportunity for adventure but also an area to reflect on your route choices and expenses. With a travel distance of approximately 150 to 160 miles, the best route is undoubtedly US-322 East, which takes about 3 to 3.5 hours and costs roughly $21.00. Enjoy the beautiful countryside as you make your way to another corner of Pennsylvania!