Driving Time between Augusta, Maine and Manchester, New Hampshire

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Road trip from Augusta, Maine to Manchester, New Hampshire: Route options and driving times

Are you planning a road trip from Augusta, Maine to Manchester, New Hampshire? Whether you're embarking on a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, there are a few different routes you can take to get from one city to the other. Here's a breakdown of your options, along with the distance and driving time for each route.

Route 1: via I-95 and I-93

The most direct route between Augusta and Manchester is also the busiest and most heavily trafficked. To get from one city to the other, you'll take I-95 south for 44 miles until you reach exit 48 on I-495. Then you'll continue on I-495 for another 36 miles, until you merge onto I-93 south. Stay on I-93 for 18 miles, and you'll arrive in Manchester.

Total distance: approximately 99 miles.

Driving time: about 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Route 2: through the White Mountains

If you're looking for a scenic drive with plenty of opportunities to explore, consider taking a longer route through the White Mountains. To do this, you'll follow Route 2 west from Augusta until you reach Gorham, New Hampshire. From there, you'll head south on Route 16 until you reach North Conway. Then you'll continue on Route 302 until you arrive in Manchester.

Total distance: approximately 170 miles.

Driving time: about 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and how many stops you make.

Route 3: along the coast

Another option is to take a route that hugs the Maine and New Hampshire coastlines. To do this, you'll take Route 1 south from Augusta until you reach Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Then you'll follow Route 1A along the coast until you reach Manchester.

Total distance: approximately 120 miles.

Driving time: about 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and how many stops you make.

No matter which route you take, there are plenty of great places to stop and explore along the way. Here are a few recommendations:

  • In Gorham, New Hampshire, take a detour to Mt. Washington Auto Road and drive to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast.
  • In North Conway, spend some time hiking in the White Mountains National Forest or shopping at the outlets.
  • In Portsmouth, visit the Strawbery Banke Museum or take a scenic harbor cruise.
  • Along Route 1A, stop at Hampton Beach State Park for some sun and sand.

Final thoughts

While there's no one "right" way to get from Augusta to Manchester, each of the three routes described above has its own unique charms. Whether you're looking for a quick and direct drive or an adventure-filled journey, you're sure to find something that suits your needs. So fill up your gas tank, pack some snacks, and hit the road - the Granite State awaits!