The Drive from Bel Air, Maryland to Hershey, Pennsylvania: How Long Does It Really Take?

Are you planning a road trip from Bel Air, Maryland to Hershey, Pennsylvania? Congratulations! You are about to embark on a journey filled with beautiful scenery and exciting destinations. But before you hit the road, you will probably want to know how long the drive will take you. In this post, we will give you an overview of the fastest and slowest routes, as well as how long you should expect to spend on the road.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

As with any road trip, your drive time will depend on the route you take. The fastest route from Bel Air to Hershey is via I-83 North. At just 81.5 miles, this route takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete under normal driving conditions. However, keep in mind that traffic can significantly affect your drive time on this route, especially during rush hour.

If you are looking for a more scenic drive, you may want to take the slowest route via US-1 N and US-15 N. This route is longer, at 106.4 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete under normal conditions. However, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of central Pennsylvania and experience small towns along the way.

The Distance and Time Based on Traffic Patterns

When it comes to estimating your drive time, you should consider traffic patterns. To avoid peak traffic times, try to plan your trip to avoid busy hours around rush hour. If you leave early in the morning or late in the evening, you are more likely to avoid heavy traffic.

At peak traffic times, your drive from Bel Air to Hershey can take significantly longer. On the fastest route, you can expect to spend up to 2 hours on the road during rush hour. On the slower route, this time can increase to up to 2 hours and 45 minutes. However, if you avoid rush hour, you can expect to save up to 30 minutes on both routes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the drive from Bel Air, Maryland to Hershey, Pennsylvania can take anywhere from 1 hour and 25 minutes to over 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on the route you take and traffic patterns. Overall, the I-83 North route offers the fastest and most direct route, while the US-1 N and US-15 N route takes you through beautiful scenery and small towns.

Plan accordingly and avoid peak traffic times for the smoothest and most enjoyable drive. No matter which route you choose, we hope you have a safe and fun journey to your destination!