The Cost of a Trip from Dover, New Hampshire to Norton, Massachusetts: Gas Prices and Route Options
Planning a road trip requires careful consideration of not just the destination, but also the potential costs involved. For those traveling from Dover, New Hampshire, to Norton, Massachusetts, one of the most crucial expenses will be fuel. In this article, we’ll explore various routes, calculate the costs based on current gas prices, and provide suggestions on the best option to take.
Understanding the Route Options
When embarking on a journey from Dover to Norton, you have several route options. Each route varies in distance, time, and fuel cost. The three primary routes to consider are:
- I-95 S to I-495 S
- US-4 W to I-495 S
- NH-16 S to I-95 S
Let’s delve into each option, evaluate its distance, time, and fuel costs based on current gas prices.
Option 1: I-95 S to I-495 S
This route leads you down one of the major highways in the northeastern United States.
- Distance: Approximately 58 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cost Calculation:
- Current Gas Price: $3.50 per gallon
- Average Fuel Economy: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Fuel Needed: 58 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 2.32 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 2.32 gallons × $3.50 = $8.12
Option 2: US-4 W to I-495 S
This route offers an alternate path with beautiful scenery but may take a bit longer.
- Distance: Approximately 62 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cost Calculation:
- Current Gas Price: $3.50 per gallon
- Average Fuel Economy: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Fuel Needed: 62 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 2.48 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 2.48 gallons × $3.50 = $8.68
Option 3: NH-16 S to I-95 S
This route may not be the most direct but offers a unique coastal experience.
- Distance: Approximately 64 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cost Calculation:
- Current Gas Price: $3.50 per gallon
- Average Fuel Economy: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Fuel Needed: 64 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 2.56 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 2.56 gallons × $3.50 = $8.96
Comparing the Costs
Here’s a summary of the findings for each route's fuel cost:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Time (minutes) | Fuel Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-95 S to I-495 S | 58 | 70 | 8.12 |
| US-4 W to I-495 S | 62 | 80 | 8.68 |
| NH-16 S to I-95 S | 64 | 90 | 8.96 |
From this comparison, Route 1 (I-95 S to I-495 S) is the most economical and quickest option for your trip from Dover to Norton.
Recommendations
If your priority is to reach Norton quickly and economically, the I-95 S to I-495 S route is your best bet. It offers the shortest distance and lowest fuel cost, making it both time-efficient and budget-friendly. For those who enjoy scenic drives, the US-4 W to I-495 S option is also a good choice, though it costs a bit more.
Consider your personal preferences when selecting your route. If you enjoy a peaceful drive with beautiful landscapes, the longer routes may provide a more enjoyable journey, even if they cost slightly more in fuel.
Conclusion
A road trip from Dover, New Hampshire, to Norton, Massachusetts, presents several route options, each with its own unique charm and costs. After evaluating the distances and gas prices, taking I-95 S to I-495 S offers the most efficient trip, costing around $8.12 in fuel and taking approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Whichever route you choose, plan ahead, enjoy the ride, and make the most of your journey. Safe travels!