Driving Cost from Dover, New Hampshire to Walpole, Massachusetts

A picture depicting a gas pump

Analyzing the Cost of a Trip from Dover, New Hampshire to Walpole, Massachusetts Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip between Dover, New Hampshire, and Walpole, Massachusetts, can be an exciting endeavor. Not only do you get to explore the beautiful New England scenery, but you also have the chance to experience a few welcoming towns along the way. As you prepare for your journey, understanding the potential costs—especially in terms of fuel—can help you plan accordingly. Here, we’ll explore different routes, their distances, fuel costs, and recommend the most efficient way to travel.

Evaluating Gas Prices

Before delving into the routes, let’s first discuss the essential factor in calculating costs: gas prices. As of October 2023, the average gas price in the New England area hovers around $3.50 per gallon. The fuel efficiency of your vehicle also plays a significant role; for our calculations, let’s assume an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, which is typical for many sedans.

Calculating these factors allows us to derive a rough estimate of the total fuel costs based on the distance of the trip.

Route Options Overview

Dover and Walpole lie approximately 60 miles apart, and drivers have several options when it comes to choosing a route. Below, we’ll examine three primary routes and analyze each one based on distance, estimated travel time, gas cost, and scenic value.

Route 1: The I-95 and I-495 Route

Distance: Approximately 65 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Driving Directions:

  1. Take NH-16 S from Dover.
  2. Merge onto I-95 S.
  3. Merge onto I-495 S toward Cape Cod.
  4. Take Exit 12 toward US-1 S.
  5. Continue on US-1 S to Walpole.

Gas Cost Calculation:

  • Distance: 65 miles
  • Gallons required: 65 miles / 25 mpg = 2.6 gallons
  • Total cost: 2.6 gallons x $3.50 = $9.10

Scenic Value: This route takes you through coastal New Hampshire and southern Maine, offering a glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll see charming seaside homes and the beautiful change of scenery.

Route 2: The I-93 Route

Distance: Approximately 63 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Driving Directions:

  1. Head south on NH-16 S.
  2. Merge onto I-93 S towards Boston.
  3. Take I-95 S to Walpole.

Gas Cost Calculation:

  • Distance: 63 miles
  • Gallons required: 63 miles / 25 mpg = 2.52 gallons
  • Total cost: 2.52 gallons x $3.50 = $8.82

Scenic Value: Traveling through Concord and Manchester on I-93 offers beautiful views of rolling hills and small New Hampshire towns.

Route 3: The Scenic Route via NH-125 and US-1

Distance: Approximately 70 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Driving Directions:

  1. Take NH-125 S from Dover.
  2. Continue onto US-1 S.
  3. Follow US-1 S until you reach Walpole.

Gas Cost Calculation:

  • Distance: 70 miles
  • Gallons required: 70 miles / 25 mpg = 2.8 gallons
  • Total cost: 2.8 gallons x $3.50 = $9.80

Scenic Value: This route takes you through quaint towns, lush landscapes, and provides a charming New England countryside experience.

After analyzing the distances, estimated travel times, and costs associated with each route, the I-95 and I-495 route is the best option for your trip from Dover, NH to Walpole, MA.

  1. Cost-Effective: With a total fuel cost of $9.10, it is the most economical option compared to others.
  2. Time Efficiency: Estimated travel time of just 1 hour 10 minutes means you will spend less time on the road and more time at your destination.
  3. Scenic Enjoyment: The coastal views along I-95 present a stunning backdrop, making your journey visually gratifying.

Road Trip Reminders

While planning your trip, remember to take weather conditions and potential traffic into account. New England's weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the fall. Potential detours and transit delays can occur on weekends or holidays, especially near major urban areas like Boston.

Additional Costs to Consider

While the primary expense will be fuel, it’s smart to have a budget for other potential costs, such as:

  • Tolls: Depending on your route, you may encounter toll roads.
  • Food and Drinks: Consider stops for meals or snacks along the way.
  • Unexpected Expenses: Always have a buffer for unforeseen circumstances.

Conclusion

As detailed above, the trip between Dover, New Hampshire, and Walpole, Massachusetts, is affordable and pleasant when you follow the I-95 and I-495 route. This 65-mile journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes—perfect for a weekend getaway or a day trip. By spending around $9.10 on fuel, you secure an economical yet enjoyable endeavor into the heart of New England. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, you can soak in the views and explore delightful destinations along the way.