Road Trip From Arlington, MA to Silver Spring, MD: Fastest and Slowest Routes

Who doesn’t love a good road trip? If you’re planning to drive from Arlington, Massachusetts to Silver Spring, Maryland, you’re in for a treat, as the route passes through some great scenic spots in the eastern part of the United States. Here’s a quick guide on the different routes you can take and the time it takes to get there.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Arlington, MA, to Silver Spring, MD, is via I-95 South. The 455-mile journey takes around 7 hours and 30 minutes without traffic. However, during peak traffic hours, it could take up to 9 hours or more. The scenic route, meandering through the rolling hills and mountains of the Appalachian Trail, will take about 10 hours, but will be worth the extra time.

Distance and Time Based On Traffic Patterns

The I-95 route covers approximately 455 miles, while the scenic route is about 535 miles. As mentioned earlier, traffic can significantly impact driving time, so it’s important to keep abreast of any traffic jams, construction work, or anything else that could cause delays. Traffic in the D.C. metropolitan area, for example, can be notoriously slow, so plan accordingly.

If you’re traveling during peak traffic hours, such as rush hour, the time it takes to reach your destination will increase. Using the I-95 route, traveling from Arlington, MA to Silver Spring, MD, during peak traffic hours will likely take more than 9 hours.

Different Options and Drive Times

If you’re interested in taking a leisurely drive and exploring the beauty of the northeastern United States, there are several options. One is to take I-84, which will lead you through a beautiful countryside, passing through Hartford, Bridgeport, and Philadelphia. While this route adds an extra 50 miles to the trip, the scenic drive can take up to 10 hours, depending on traffic.

Another option is to take Route 2 South to Harrisburg, then head east on I-76. This route will take you through the rolling hills and valleys of Pennsylvania Amish Country. This drive may take longer, but the photo opportunities will be well worth it.

In conclusion, the time it takes to drive from Arlington, Massachusetts, to Silver Spring, Maryland, depends on the route you choose and the traffic conditions. While the I-95 route is the fastest, a longer, more scenic drive may be worth the extra time. We hope this guide helps you plan your next east coast road trip!