Road Trip from Altoona, Pennsylvania to Lebanon, New Hampshire

Are you in the mood for a scenic road trip? Look no further than the journey from Altoona in Pennsylvania to Lebanon in New Hampshire! Buckle up and get ready for an adventure through beautiful landscapes and charming towns. In this article, we'll explore a few routes you can take, the distance and driving time for each route, and even recommend some great places to stop along the way.

Route 1: The Picturesque Path

The first route takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the Northeast. Kick off your journey by heading east on U.S. Route 22 and merging onto I-99 North. Enjoy the rolling hills of central Pennsylvania as you drive through historic towns like Huntingdon and State College. Cross the Susquehanna River and enter the lovely state of New York.

Once in New York, continue on I-86 and then I-81 North, marveling at the stunning countryside views along the way. Take a break in Binghamton, a city known for its art and culture, and grab a bite to eat. From there, hop on I-88 East towards Albany and prepare for breathtaking vistas as you drive through the Catskill Mountains.

Entering Massachusetts, take I-90 East until you reach the Massachusetts Turnpike. Cruise through the Berkshire Mountains, and make a pit stop in scenic Pittsfield. Finally, drive through the bucolic landscapes of Vermont on I-91 North before reaching Lebanon, New Hampshire.

Distance: Approximately 420 miles
Driving Time: Approximately 7-8 hours

Route 2: The Historic Journey

If you're a history buff, this route will be right up your alley. Start by taking I-99 East from Altoona, Pennsylvania, passing through the cities of State College and Williamsport along the way. As you drive, reminisce about the region's rich past, from the Native American heritage to the heyday of the lumber industry.

Continue on I-180 East, and watch as the countryside changes from rolling hills to lush forests. After crossing the border into New York, take a detour and visit the historic town of Corning, famous for its glassmaking heritage. Explore the Corning Museum of Glass and admire masterpieces created by skilled craftsmen.

Get back on the road and head north on I-86, passing through the charming city of Elmira, where Mark Twain wrote some of his greatest works. Soon, you'll reach Binghamton, where you can learn about the city's vibrant past at the Bundy Museum of History and Art.

From there, follow the same path as Route 1, continuing on I-88 East towards Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and finally, Lebanon, New Hampshire.

Distance: Approximately 460 miles
Driving Time: Approximately 8-9 hours

Route 3: The Scenic Shortcut

For those looking to make the journey in a shorter amount of time while still enjoying beautiful scenery, this route offers a scenic shortcut. Begin by driving east on U.S. Route 22 and merge onto I-99 North. As you pass through State College, take I-80 East, traversing the forests and hills of central Pennsylvania.

Crossing into New Jersey, continue on I-80 East, known as the "World's Greatest Highway." Behold the stunning vistas of the Delaware Water Gap and consider stopping for a hike along one of the many trails in the area.

Enter New York and follow I-84 East, reveling in the tranquil beauty of the Hudson Valley. Take a detour and explore the charming village of Cold Spring, known for its quaint streets lined with boutique shops and eateries.

Finally, merge onto I-87 North and embrace the rolling countryside of Upstate New York before crossing into Vermont. Drive along I-91 North, soaking in the picturesque landscapes, until you reach Lebanon, New Hampshire.

Distance: Approximately 405 miles
Driving Time: Approximately 6-7 hours

Recommendations: What to See and Do

Whichever route you choose, there are plenty of noteworthy stops along the way. Consider pausing in the beautiful city of Albany, New York, and explore the New York State Museum or take a stroll through the Albany Pine Bush Preserve.

In Pittsfield, Massachusetts, make sure to visit the Norman Rockwell Museum and admire the iconic artist's timeless illustrations. If you have time, venture to Hancock Shaker Village and experience a slice of history in this preserved Shaker community.

Lastly, when you reach Lebanon, New Hampshire, take advantage of the natural wonders in the area. Spend a day hiking in the stunningly beautiful White Mountain National Forest or explore the enchanting Dartmouth College campus.

So, pack your bags, fill up the tank, and get ready for a road trip you won't forget. Embark on the journey from Altoona, Pennsylvania to Lebanon, New Hampshire, and enjoy the scenic routes, fascinating history, and memorable experiences along the way. Happy travels!

Note: Driving times are approximate and may vary based on traffic and road conditions. Plan ahead and check for any potential delays or detours.