Exploring New England: How Long Does It Take To Drive From Bar Harbor, Maine to Barnstable, Massachusetts?
If you're planning a road trip through the scenic New England region of the United States, you might be wondering how long it takes to drive from Bar Harbor, Maine to Barnstable, Massachusetts. While the distance isn't too far, the driving time can vary depending on a few factors. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the fastest and slowest driving routes, the distance of each route, and the estimated drive times for peak traffic and low traffic times.
The Fastest Route
If you're in a rush to get to Barnstable, the fastest route from Bar Harbor is via I-95 S and MA-3 S. This route covers a distance of approximately 236 miles and should take around 4 hours and 20 minutes in good traffic conditions. However, keep in mind that this route is likely to have heavy traffic during peak travel times, which could add to your driving time. If you're driving during the early morning or late evening, you might be able to shave a bit of time off this route.
The Scenic Route
If you have some extra time and want to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way, consider taking a more leisurely route that takes you along the coast. The scenic route from Bar Harbor to Barnstable follows US-1 S, US-1A S, and US-6 W, covering a distance of approximately 255 miles. While this route adds a bit of extra distance, it offers stunning views of the Maine coastline and Cape Cod Bay. Be prepared for some slower driving due to the winding roads and potential traffic during peak travel times. This route should take around 6 hours and 15 minutes in good traffic conditions, but allow for some extra time if you want to stop and take photos or explore the small coastal towns along the way.
Traffic Patterns
As mentioned above, traffic can have a big impact on your driving time. If you're traveling during peak travel times, such as weekends or holidays, expect heavier traffic and slower driving speeds. On the other hand, if you're driving during off-peak times, you might be able to cruise along at a faster pace. Here's a breakdown of estimated driving times for both peak and low traffic times:
Fastest Route:
- Peak Traffic: 5 hours and 15 minutes
- Low traffic: 4 hours and 20 minutes
Scenic Route:
- Peak Traffic: 7 hours and 15 minutes
- Low Traffic: 6 hours and 15 minutes
No matter which route you choose, the drive from Bar Harbor to Barnstable offers plenty of gorgeous scenery and charming coastal towns to explore. Plan your trip accordingly, taking into account traffic patterns and your desired level of adventure, and enjoy all that New England has to offer!