Driving Cost from Denville, New Jersey to Madison, New Jersey

A picture depicting a gas pump

Exploring the Cost of a Trip Between Denville and Madison, New Jersey: Navigating Routes and Gas Prices

Traveling between Denville and Madison, two charming towns in Morris County, New Jersey, offers an opportunity to experience scenic views, local shops, and delicious dining options. The journey itself is not just an adventure; it's essential to consider the costs associated with the trip, particularly those influenced by current gas prices. This article outlines various routes you can take, estimates their costs based on recent gas prices, and helps you determine the best option for your trip.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the routes, it's important to establish an understanding of current gas prices in New Jersey. As of October 2023, the average price for regular gasoline hovers around $3.35 per gallon. However, gas prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including location, time of year, and global oil markets. For the sake of this estimate, we will use $3.35 as our benchmark.

Distance and Costs for Different Routes

Route 1: Via NJ-10 E

One of the most straightforward routes covers approximately 15 miles and will take you through scenic Morris County. You’ll start on NJ-10 E from Denville, continue onto I-287 S, and take Route 124 to Madison.

  • Distance: 15 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 25 minutes
  • Fuel Efficiency: Assuming an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you would need approximately 0.6 gallons of gas for this trip.
  • Gas Cost: 0.6 gallons x $3.35 = $2.01

This route is quite direct and offers a relatively smooth drive with minimal traffic, especially during off-peak hours.

Route 2: Via NJ-53 S

This alternative takes you through more residential areas and local streets. Begin on NJ-53 S and then follow local roads to Madison. While this route may be only slightly longer, it often includes more stops and traffic lights.

  • Distance: 16 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 30 minutes
  • Fuel Efficiency: Maintaining the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you would need approximately 0.64 gallons of gas.
  • Gas Cost: 0.64 gallons x $3.35 = $2.14

Though this route adds marginal distance and time, it can be a pleasant detour through lovely neighborhoods.

Route 3: Via I-287 S and Route 24 W

This route is often considered for those who prefer highways and faster speeds. Begin by getting on I-287 S, then take I-78 E towards Madison, exiting to Route 24 W.

  • Distance: 15 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 27 minutes
  • Fuel Efficiency: Again assuming 25 miles per gallon, you'll require about 0.6 gallons of gas.
  • Gas Cost: 0.6 gallons x $3.35 = $2.01

Highly efficient for those looking to avoid local traffic, the highway route also provides quicker access for travelers coming from further away.

Route 4: Scenic Backroads

For those looking to explore the area more leisurely, this route involves taking back roads, passing through local parks and residential neighborhoods. While it is the longest in terms of both distance and time, it showcases the beautiful Hudson Valley.

  • Distance: 18 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 40 minutes
  • Fuel Efficiency: You would need approximately 0.72 gallons of gas.
  • Gas Cost: 0.72 gallons x $3.35 = $2.41

This route might be ideal for tourists keen on sightseeing or residents wanting to discover hidden gems along the journey.

After analyzing the routes across distance, time, and cost, Route 1 via NJ-10 E stands out as the best option for most travelers. Not only does it offer the shortest distance, it also keeps fuel costs low at approximately $2.01. It strikes an excellent balance between convenience and cost-efficiency.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a leisurely drive, the scenic backroads offer a delightful exploration of the Morris County region but at a slightly higher cost and time commitment. However, for daily commuters or travelers in a hurry, sticking to the highway is advisable to minimize both travel time and fuel expenses.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip from Denville to Madison allows you to appreciate the charm of Morris County while being mindful of travel costs. The journey, particularly through the recommended route via NJ-10 E, spans around 15 miles and takes approximately 25 minutes, costing about $2.01 in gas. Whether you're heading out to grab a meal, visit a friend, or explore local attractions, knowing the best route and potential costs empowers you to enjoy your travel while managing your budget effectively. Safe travels!