On the Road: From Aspen Hill to Frederick

Road trips are always exciting, but they can also be frustrating if you don't plan your route and your timing properly. If you're headed from Aspen Hill to Frederick, Maryland, you have a few different options. Here's what you need to know.

The Fast Way

If you want to get from Aspen Hill to Frederick as quickly as possible, your best bet is probably to take I-270 N. This route is about 28 miles long and takes approximately 40 minutes without traffic. However, during peak hours, this time can easily double or triple due to congestion. Rush hour travel on I-270 North and South is particularly heavy during weekday mornings and afternoons, so plan your trip accordingly.

If you hit the road at low-traffic times (mid-day, weekends), then you can expect to arrive in Frederick around the 40-minute mark.

The Scenic Route

If you're not in a rush, or if you're looking for a more scenic route, you can take this slightly longer route which is approximately 30 miles long and takes about 50 minutes without traffic.

A nice variation is to navigate north towards Georgia Ave, take the exit for Olney and then merge onto Route 108 West. Take this route through to Laytonsville, and eventually to Damascus where Route 27 will take you right into Frederick. This will add around an extra 15 minutes to your journey, but the beauty highly compensates for those additional minutes.

The Slower Route

If you want to take things even more slowly, you could also consider taking Route 28 and Route 109 to get from Aspen Hill to Frederick. This is about 35 miles long and generally takes over an hour without traffic. This route takes an hour or more during rush hours. However, if you are looking for aspects like farms, fields and open land spaces this route will leave you delighted.

The Right Route

The best route for you depends on your priorities. If you want to get to Frederick quickly, and you're willing to risk some traffic congestion, then I-270 N is your best bet. If you want to take a scenic drive, then the route through Georgia Ave to Route 108 will have you hooked. Lastly, for those who like the long drive, don't hurry and enjoy the view, Route 28 and Route 109 will guarantee some moments of unobstructed landscapes and breathtaking views.

Whatever route you choose and at whatever time you depart, make sure you're prepared with snacks, drinks, and tunes. And don't forget to keep your GPS or Route Planner app handy for accurate directions. Enjoy your drive!