Driving from Bar Harbor, Maine to Chester, Vermont: How Long Will It Take You?

If you're planning a trip from Bar Harbor, Maine, to Chester, Vermont, you're in for a treat! The two cities boast some of the best natural attractions and picturesque scenery in the Northeast. But before you start packing up for your road trip, you may want to consider the time it will take you to get there. In this blog post, we'll break down the different routes you can take and their respective driving times, so you can make the most informed decision when planning your itinerary.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route to drive from Bar Harbor to Chester is approximately 180 miles long and should take around 3 hours and 20 minutes of driving time. This route takes you through I-95 and I-91, two major highways that connect Maine to Vermont. If you're short on time or just want to get to your destination as quickly as possible, this is the best option.

However, if you're not in a rush and want to enjoy the scenic beauty of Maine and Vermont, you may want to consider taking a slower route. You can take Route 1 down the coast of Maine and then head west on Route 2 towards Vermont. This route is approximately 260 miles long and should take around 5 hours of driving time. While much more time-consuming, this route is undoubtedly the more picturesque of the two.

Driving Time Based on Traffic Patterns

The driving time from Bar Harbor to Chester can vary greatly depending on the time of day and traffic patterns. If you're driving during peak traffic hours, your driving time can increase by up to 30 minutes on the fastest route and up to an hour on the slower route. Therefore, if you're in a hurry or want to avoid traffic, make sure you check the traffic patterns before heading out on the road.

Conversely, if you're driving during off-peak hours, you can complete the trip much faster. On the fastest route, you may save up to 20 minutes, and on the slower route, you can save up to 30 minutes of driving time. Keep in mind that driving in the dead of the night might not be the most exciting, but if you're looking to get to your destination quickly, this is the time to do it.

Conclusion

In summary, the time it takes to drive from Bar Harbor, Maine, to Chester, Vermont, can range from 3 hours and 20 minutes to 5 hours. Which route you select depends on whether you want to get to your destination quickly or enjoy a leisurely scenic drive. Regardless of your choice, be sure to factor in traffic patterns to ensure a smooth trip. Happy driving!