The Cost of a Road Trip: Dover, Massachusetts to Morristown, Vermont Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Dover, Massachusetts to Morristown, Vermont can be an exciting endeavor. Not only do you get to experience beautiful scenic views, but you also embark on a journey that is filled with unique stops and delightful experiences along the way. However, understanding the costs associated with this trip, particularly regarding gas prices, can help in budgeting your expenses effectively. This article explores various routes you can take between these two locations, analyzes their distances, and provides insight into the overall cost based on current gas prices.
Current Gas Prices
Before delving into the different routes, let’s consider the current average gas prices. As of October 2023, the average price for regular gasoline in Massachusetts is approximately $3.50 per gallon. In Vermont, prices hover around $3.60 per gallon. Given that your vehicle’s fuel efficiency plays a significant role in determining your total cost, performing some calculations will help you gauge your trip’s cost more accurately.
Assuming you drive a vehicle that averages around 25 miles per gallon, here’s how each route may break down in terms of distance and cost.
Possible Routes
Route 1: I-89 N via I-93 N
The first option for traveling from Dover, Massachusetts to Morristown, Vermont is to take I-89 North via I-93 North. This route covers approximately 150 miles and usually takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Cost Calculation:
- Total Distance: 150 miles
- Fuel Consumption: 150 miles ÷ 25 miles/gallon = 6 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 6 gallons × $3.50 (average gas price) = $21.00
Route 2: I-91 N and VT-100 N
Another route involves taking I-91 North, and then VT-100 North. This route is slightly longer, at roughly 170 miles, and typically takes about 3.5 hours without accounting for any stops.
Cost Calculation:
- Total Distance: 170 miles
- Fuel Consumption: 170 miles ÷ 25 miles/gallon = 6.8 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 6.8 gallons × $3.60 (average gas price) = $24.48
Route 3: MA-2 W and VT-15 W
A more scenic and leisurely option is to take MA-2 West followed by VT-15 West. This route covers around 165 miles, and the drive time is similar, averaging about 3.5 hours.
Cost Calculation:
- Total Distance: 165 miles
- Fuel Consumption: 165 miles ÷ 25 miles/gallon = 6.6 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 6.6 gallons × $3.50 (average gas price) = $23.10
Route 4: US-5 N
Lastly, you can consider traveling through winding country roads by taking US-5 North. This is the longest route among the options, measuring approximately 180 miles. Drive time can range between 4 to 4.5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Cost Calculation:
- Total Distance: 180 miles
- Fuel Consumption: 180 miles ÷ 25 miles/gallon = 7.2 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 7.2 gallons × $3.60 (average gas price) = $25.92
Summary of Costs and Distances
Let's summarize the costs and distances for each route:
Route Description | Total Distance (miles) | Estimated Cost ($) | Drive Time (hours) |
---|---|---|---|
I-89 N via I-93 N | 150 | 21.00 | 3 |
I-91 N and VT-100 N | 170 | 24.48 | 3.5 |
MA-2 W and VT-15 W | 165 | 23.10 | 3.5 |
US-5 N | 180 | 25.92 | 4 |
Recommendations
Among the various routes available, Route 1 (I-89 N via I-93 N) emerges as the most cost-effective and time-efficient option. With a total distance of 150 miles and an estimated fuel cost of only $21.00, opting for this route reduces your travel expenses, allowing you to allocate more budget toward food or leisure activities once you arrive in Morristown.
Additionally, this route provides modern highway amenities and the quickest travel time, making it ideal for those who want to reach their destination without unnecessary delays. While the alternative routes offer scenic vistas, they may extend your travel time, which could be a crucial factor for time-sensitive travelers.
Conclusion
Your journey from Dover, Massachusetts to Morristown, Vermont can be both enjoyable and budget-friendly if you choose the most suitable route. Taking I-89 N and I-93 N will not only bring you to your destination in approximately 3 hours but will also keep your fuel costs around $21.00, considering the current gas prices. Prepare for a memorable adventure exploring Vermont while enjoying a stress-free drive on well-maintained highways! With the right planning, this trip can be a delightful experience.