The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Augusta, Maine to Salem, New Hampshire

If you're planning a road trip from Augusta, Maine to Salem, New Hampshire, you may be wondering how long it will take to get there. The driving distance between these two cities is about 160 miles, but traffic, weather, and other factors can affect how long it takes to complete the journey. In this post, we'll explore the fastest and slowest routes, their respective distances, and how long you can expect to spend on the road.

The Fastest Route: I-95 S

The quickest route to Salem, NH from Augusta, ME is to take I-95 S. The trip spans about 3 hours and 15 minutes, covering 163 miles. This route will take you through Portland, ME, and Portsmouth, NH. This is the ideal option for drivers looking to get to Salem quickly and efficiently. However, be prepared for heavy traffic particularly during peak hours between 7 and 9 am and 4 and 6 pm.

The Scenic Route: Route 4

If you're in no hurry and you're looking to enjoy the scenery, Route 4 is an exciting option. This path covers about 180 miles, which will take you on a journey through Augusta, ME, Livermore Falls, ME, Farmington, NH, and Rochester, NH. You'll be driving through quaint towns and rustic countryside, which makes for a lovely road trip. Unfortunately, this route may take up to 4 hours or more due to its twists and turns and lower speed limits compared to the highway.

The Longest Route: US-202 E and NH-16 S

The longest and most roundabout way is US-202 E and NH-16 S, which spans 184 miles and takes roughly four hours to cover. You'll drive through Augusta, ME, Skowhegan, ME, Lewiston, ME, and Fryeburg, ME before crossing state lines into NH. Once you enter NH, you'll take NH-16 S through the White Mountains before arriving in Salem, NH. While this route will take you on a longer journey, you'll get to drive through some of the most beautiful parts of Maine and New Hampshire.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are different routes that you can take when driving from Augusta, Maine to Salem, New Hampshire. The fastest route takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes to cover a distance of 163 miles via I-95 S. The scenic route through Route 4 is about 180 miles and takes about 4 hours or more due to its lower speed limits and winding roads. On the other hand, the longest route that takes you through US-202 E and NH-16 S covers around 184 miles but takes four hours or more. Your drive time may also depend on traffic patterns, so it might be best to plan your trip around peak and low traffic hours. By considering these different options, you'll have a better understanding of how long it will take you to get from Augusta to Salem, NH. Safe travels!