The Cost of Driving from Arlington, VA to Lake Arbor, MD: Exploring Your Options

Taking a road trip can be a great experience, but it's also important to know the cost involved in advance. If you're planning a road trip from Arlington, Virginia to Lake Arbor, Maryland, you have a few options and factors that can impact your cost. In this post, we'll break down the cost of each route you could take.

Route 1: Taking I-395 South and I-95 South

Distance: 34.1 miles Estimated Time: 36 minutes

This is a highly efficient route that should get you to Lake Arbor as quickly as possible. However, it is a popular route and you may encounter traffic during peak hours. Without traffic, you should be able to make it in 36 minutes.

Gas Cost: The total estimated gallons of gas required for this trip is 1.7 gallons. Based on current gas prices in Arlington, this will cost you around $6.45.

Toll Cost: There are no tolls on this route.

Total Cost: $6.45

Route 2: Using US-50 E and US-301 S

Distance: 35.4 miles Estimated Time: 46 minutes

This route is slightly longer but may be more convenient depending on your starting location in Arlington and the time of day you're traveling. This route takes you across the Potomac River and through the southeastern part of Washington D.C. before heading down to Maryland.

Gas Cost: It is estimated that this route will take about 1.8 gallons of gas. At today's gas prices in Arlington, this will come out to approximately $6.84.

Toll Cost: As you cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, you'll be required to pay a toll of $4.00 for one-way.

Total Cost: $10.84

Route 3: Taking The Scenic Route Using George Washington Memorial Parkway

Distance: 44.4 miles Estimated Time: 1 hour and 2 minutes

If you have extra time and would like to take in some scenic views of D.C, the Scenic route is ideal. But it might be a bit slower than the other routes. George Washington Memorial Parkway along your route runs through several historical landmarks and parks, including Arlington National Cemetery, Theodore Roosevelt Island Park, and Mount Vernon Estate. You’ll be traveling along the scenic Potomac river, so you will definitely have some relaxing views.

Gas Cost: This route will require approximately 2.2 gallons of gas based on current fuel prices in Arlington. This will come out to around $8.36.

Toll Cost There are no tolls on this route.

Total Cost: $8.36

Conclusion

When planning your road trip from Arlington, Virginia to Lake Arbor, Maryland, it's important to factor the distance, gas cost, and toll fees on each route. Depending on your budget, time, and desired experience, Route 1 may be your ultimate choice due to the time efficiency, and affordability. Route 2 and Route 3 will surely give your road trip and unforgettable memorable experience, but with some costs to pay, and added time. Hopefully, this analysis has helped you plan and budget for your upcoming road trip. Safe travels!