The Cost of a Trip Between Ashburn, Virginia and Shady Side, Maryland
With the rising cost of gas, it's always important to consider the expenses associated with road trips. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, knowing the cost of your trip can help you budget and plan accordingly. In this article, we will explore the various routes between Ashburn, Virginia and Shady Side, Maryland, highlighting the distance and cost of each option based on current gas prices. By the end, we will recommend the best route for your journey.
Routes and Costs
Route 1: Taking the Highway, the Fastest But Most Expensive Option
The most straightforward and time-efficient route between Ashburn, Virginia, and Shady Side, Maryland, is via the major highways. To begin, take VA-267 W (the Dulles Greenway) from Ashburn and merge onto VA-28 S. Continue on VA-28 S until reaching the I-66 E exit toward Washington D.C. Merge onto I-66 E and continue for approximately 17 miles.
Next, take the exit onto US-50 E toward Arlington/Washington. Continue for about 5 miles, then take the exit onto I-495 S/I-95 S toward Richmond/Alexandria. Stay on I-495 S (Capital Beltway) for approximately 32 miles.
Once you reach Maryland, continue onto I-495 E/I-95 N. Stay on I-495 E for about 10 miles, then take exit 19A to merge onto US-50 E/John Hanson Hwy toward Annapolis/Bay Bridge. Continue on US-50 E for about 24 miles, then take the exit toward Contee Rd/MD-704.
Finally, merge onto MD-704 S, and in less than a mile, you will reach your destination, Shady Side, Maryland.
This route covers a distance of approximately 82 miles and is the quickest option. However, due to the tolls and longer distance on major highways, the cost of this route can be higher compared to alternative options. Based on the current gas prices, estimating an average of 25 miles per gallon (MPG) for your vehicle, and a gas price of $2.50 per gallon, you can expect to spend around $8.28 on gas for this route.
Route 2: The More Scenic Coastal Drive, Moderate Distance and Cost
If you prefer a more scenic route that avoids some highways, you can opt for a coastal drive, which is both picturesque and relaxing. To start, head south on Ashburn Rd, then on Waxpool Rd until you reach Belmont Ridge Rd. Turn right onto Belmont Ridge Rd, following it until you reach VA-7 E.
Take VA-7 E and continue for approximately 41 miles, passing through Leesburg and Purcellville. Once you enter the town of Round Hill, take the exit onto VA-719 S. Continue on VA-719 S for about 14 miles, then turn left onto Lovettsville Rd (VA-673). Drive for about 4 miles, then turn right onto Petersville Rd and continue until you reach MD-17 N.
Take MD-17 N and continue for approximately 9 miles, then turn right onto Lander Rd. Follow Lander Rd until you reach Harpers Ferry Rd, where you'll turn right. Continue on Harpers Ferry Rd for approximately 4 miles, then turn left onto Furnace Town Rd. After 3 miles, turn right onto MD-28 E/Petersville Rd, then continue onto MD-464 E.
Finally, merge onto MD-2 S and continue for about 19 miles until you reach Shady Side, Maryland.
This coastal drive is slightly longer, covering a distance of approximately 96 miles. However, the absence of major highways and tolls contributes to a lower overall cost compared to Route 1. Based on the same gas price and MPG estimates, you can expect to spend around $10.03 on gas for this route.
Route 3: The Shortest and Most Cost-Efficient Option, Ideal for Economy
If your main concern is minimizing costs and you don't mind a shorter drive, Route 3 might be the perfect option for you. To begin, head south on Ashburn Rd and continue onto Waxpool Rd. After approximately 7 miles, turn left onto Farmwell Hunt Plaza and follow it until reaching Ashby Ponds Blvd.
Merge onto Loudoun County Pkwy and continue for about 13 miles, passing through Brambleton and South Riding. Then, turn right onto Braddock Rd, following it for approximately 3 miles before turning left onto Gum Spring Rd.
Stay on Gum Spring Rd for about 15 miles, passing through Arcola and Lenah before reaching Aldie. Here, turn right onto U.S. 50 W and continue for approximately 20 miles, passing through Middleburg and Upperville.
Finally, turn left onto Route 713 and continue for about 1.5 miles. Shady Side, Maryland, will be on your right.
This route covers a distance of approximately 59 miles, resulting in less gas consumption compared to the previous two options. Based on the same gas price and MPG estimates, you can expect to spend around $6.19 on gas for this route.
Recommendation: Route 3 for Optimal Cost Efficiency
After comparing the routes in terms of distance and cost, we recommend Route 3 for its optimal cost efficiency. This route may be shorter, but it allows you to save on gas expenses while still reaching your destination efficiently. With a total distance of approximately 59 miles and an estimated gas cost of $6.19, this option is ideal for those looking to save money on their trip from Ashburn, Virginia, to Shady Side, Maryland.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best route for your trip between Ashburn, Virginia, and Shady Side, Maryland, depends on your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize speed and convenience, Route 1, taking major highways, is the fastest option despite being more expensive due to tolls and the longer distance. On the other hand, if you desire a scenic drive and are willing to take a slightly longer route, Route 2 provides a moderate distance and cost without major highways.
However, for the most cost-efficient option, our recommendation is Route 3, which is shorter and avoids highways and tolls. This route minimizes the distance traveled and subsequently reduces your overall gas expenses. Depending on your vehicle's MPG and the current gas price, you can expect to spend approximately $6.19 on gas for this route.
So, buckle up, hit the road, and enjoy your trip from Ashburn, Virginia, to Shady Side, Maryland. With Route 3, you can reach your destination in an economically efficient manner. Safe travels!