Road Trip from Carlisle, PA to Herndon, VA: Exploring Your Options

Are you planning a trip from Carlisle, Pennsylvania to Herndon, Virginia anytime soon? Perhaps you're moving or visiting relatives or just in need of a change of scenery. Whatever your reason may be, it's always good to have a plan in place.

Driving is the most popular way to travel between these two cities, but there are a few different routes to take. In this article, we'll break down each option, including the distance, time it takes to drive, and some recommended stops along the way.

Route 1: I-81 South and I-66 East

Coming in at around 133 miles, this is the most direct route. Start by taking I-81 South from Carlisle, and follow it all the way down to I-66 East. From there, it's a straight shot to Herndon.

While shorter in distance, this route can be slower due to traffic on I-66, especially if you're driving during rush hour. On a typical day with no traffic, however, the driving time should be around 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Recommendation: If you're looking for something to break up the drive, consider stopping at Sky Meadows State Park. This beautiful park offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and even horseback riding!

Route 2: PA Turnpike, I-95 South, and VA-267 West

This route is the longest in terms of distance at around 174 miles, but it may be faster depending on traffic conditions. Start by taking the PA Turnpike West and following it to a junction with I-95 South. Follow I-95 South for about 40 miles, then take VA-267 West to Herndon.

The main advantage of this route is that it avoids the traffic on I-66, which can be a nightmare during peak hours. However, expect to pay a few tolls along the way, and keep in mind that tolls may increase for those traveling during rush hour.

The driving time for this route is typically around 3 hours, but it can vary depending on traffic.

Recommendation: While passing through Virginia, consider stopping at Great Falls Park. This stunning park offers views of the Potomac River's waterfalls from various overlooks and trails.

Route 3: US-15 South and VA-7 East

If you're looking for a more scenic route, this might be the one for you. Start by taking US-15 South from Carlisle and follow it through Maryland and Virginia to US-50 East. Then, take VA-7 East to Herndon.

This route's driving time is around 3 hours and 15 minutes, but it's worth it for the stunning views of the Catoctin Mountains and Shenandoah Valley.

Recommendation: If you're in the mood for some outdoor fun, make a stop at Harper's Ferry National Historical Park. Here, you'll find hiking trails, historical buildings, and stunning views of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers.

No matter which route you choose, we hope this article helps you plan your trip from Carlisle to Herndon. So, buckle up, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!