Calculating the Costs: A Road Trip from Dunbarton, NH to Sutton, MA Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Dunbarton, New Hampshire, to Sutton, Massachusetts? With current rising gas prices, understanding the cost of your journey can help you budget better. This article explores various routes, evaluates the distance, calculates fuel costs, and helps you choose the best option for your trip.
Overview of the Trip
Dunbarton is a quaint town in New Hampshire, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Sutton, located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, presents a different charm with its own scenic views. The drive between these two locations offers an opportunity to appreciate the New England countryside, but it also requires careful consideration of costs, especially gas prices, which can fluctuate.
As of now, let's assume the average cost of gas is approximately $3.50 per gallon. We will base our calculations on a vehicle that gets around 25 miles per gallon (MPG), a reasonable average for many cars today.
Route Options
Route 1: I-89 S and I-90 E
The first and most straightforward route takes you from Dunbarton to Sutton via I-89 S and I-90 E.
- Distance: Approximately 76 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Cost Calculation
- Total Miles: 76 miles
- Total Gallons Needed: 76 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 3.04 gallons
- Total Cost: 3.04 gallons × $3.50 per gallon = $10.64
Route 2: I-93 S and MA 9 E
The second route follows I-93 S and MA 9 E.
- Distance: Approximately 80 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Cost Calculation
- Total Miles: 80 miles
- Total Gallons Needed: 80 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 3.2 gallons
- Total Cost: 3.2 gallons × $3.50 per gallon = $11.20
Route 3: NH-132 S and MA 140 S
Another alternative involves taking NH-132 S then threading through MA 140 S.
- Distance: Approximately 90 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Cost Calculation
- Total Miles: 90 miles
- Total Gallons Needed: 90 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 3.6 gallons
- Total Cost: 3.6 gallons × $3.50 per gallon = $12.60
A Summary of the Routes
| Route | Distance (miles) | Driving Time | Gallons Required | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-89 S and I-90 E | 76 | 1 hour 20 mins | 3.04 | $10.64 |
| I-93 S and MA 9 E | 80 | 1 hour 30 mins | 3.2 | $11.20 |
| NH-132 S and MA 140 S | 90 | 1 hour 45 mins | 3.6 | $12.60 |
Recommended Route
Considering both the fuel cost and the time taken, the first route via I-89 S and I-90 E emerges as the most economical and efficient choice. With a total distance of 76 miles and an estimated fuel cost of only $10.64, it balances convenience and affordability. Not to mention, the scenery along this route generally encompasses picturesque views of both New Hampshire and Massachusetts.
Scenic Stops along the Way
In addition to the cost and distance, planning for scenic breaks can enhance the travel experience. If you choose Route 1, consider a stop at:
- Rollins State Park: Located just off I-89, this park offers beautiful hiking trails and stunning views.
- Lake Sunapee: A potential detour where you can enjoy lakeside relaxation or a quick picnic.
Conclusion
Choosing the optimal route from Dunbarton, NH to Sutton, MA will ensure you enjoy a beautiful drive while managing costs. The recommended route via I-89 S and I-90 E is about 76 miles long, takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, and will cost you around $10.64 in gas. Enjoy the journey while appreciating the scenic beauty of New England!