Fueling Your Adventure: The Cost of a Trip from Derry, NH to Hillsborough, NH
Planning a road trip between Derry and Hillsborough, New Hampshire, opens up various routes to explore. Whether you seek scenic views or the quickest travel time, understanding the cost of your trip is crucial, especially in today's fluctuating gas prices. This article examines several routes, their associated costs, and provides a recommendation for the best path to take.
Overview of the Journey
The distance between Derry and Hillsborough is approximately 36 miles, or about 58 kilometers. The estimated driving time varies based on the selected route, weather conditions, and traffic. However, for calculating fuel costs, we’ll base our estimates on current gas prices and average vehicle mileage.
As of October 2023, the average gas price in New Hampshire is around $3.50 per gallon. This can fluctuate, so it's wise to check local gas stations for current rates. For a vehicle that gets around 25 miles per gallon (mpg), here’s how the trip costs can break down.
Route Options
Route 1: The Direct Route via NH-93 N
Distance: 36 miles
Estimated Time: 35-45 minutes
Cost: Approximately $5.04
Taking Route 1 via NH-93 N is the most direct and efficient route to Hillsborough. You will start on NH-102 and merge onto NH-93 N at exit 4. Continue on NH-93 N for a short distance before taking exit 15 for NH-202 E. Follow NH-202 E until you reach Hillsborough.
For a car that averages 25 mpg, the required fuel for this journey is roughly 1.44 gallons. At $3.50 per gallon, the trip will cost around $5.04.
Route 2: Scenic Route via NH-101 and NH-202
Distance: 42 miles
Estimated Time: 50-60 minutes
Cost: Approximately $5.88
The second route Meanders through more scenic areas by taking NH-101 W. This route lets you enjoy the beautiful views of southern New Hampshire's forests and rural landscapes. From Derry, head onto NH-101 W. After approximately 18 miles, take the exit for NH-202 E. Follow NH-202 E to Hillsborough.
This route is slightly longer, requiring around 1.68 gallons of fuel, leading to a total cost of about $5.88.
Route 3: Alternative Route via NH-28
Distance: 38 miles
Estimated Time: 40-50 minutes
Cost: Approximately $5.32
Another option is to take Route 3 via NH-28 N. From Derry, drive onto NH-28 N. After around 20 miles, you'll merge onto NH-101 E, then take exit 12 for NH-202 E to Hillsborough.
This path will need about 1.52 gallons of gas, making the total cost approximately $5.32.
Summary of Routes Cost Comparison
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| NH-93 N | 36 | 35-45 minutes | $5.04 |
| NH-101 & NH-202 | 42 | 50-60 minutes | $5.88 |
| NH-28 & NH-202 | 38 | 40-50 minutes | $5.32 |
Recommendations
Considering your time and budget constraints, Route 1 via NH-93 N is the best choice. It provides the shortest distance, the quickest travel time, and the lowest fuel cost. If you’re looking for an efficient way to reach Hillsborough while minimizing your expenses, this route will serve you well.
However, if you have no rush and appreciate the aesthetics of the New Hampshire countryside, the NH-101 and NH-202 option offers a more pleasurable drive. Just keep in mind it comes with a slightly higher cost and travel time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey from Derry to Hillsborough is approximately 36 miles and can be completed in as little as 35 minutes, depending on the route selected. The most budget-friendly and efficient choice is the direct route via NH-93 N, costing around $5.04 in fuel expenses. Whichever route you choose, make sure to enjoy the beautiful scenery of New Hampshire’s landscapes along the way. Safe travels!