The Cost of Driving From Barnstable, Massachusetts to Lowell, Massachusetts
Are you planning a road trip from Barnstable to Lowell, Massachusetts? Knowing the cost of your journey can help you plan your budget and make the most of your travel experience. In this blog post, we will explore different routes, their distances, travel times, and the estimated costs based on current gas prices and toll fees.
Route 1: Taking the Traditional Highway
The most straightforward route from Barnstable to Lowell is taking the traditional highway, which provides the quickest and most direct path. The distance between these two cities is 112 miles. With moderate traffic conditions and an average driving speed, you can expect to spend around 2 hours on the road.
To calculate the fuel cost, we will assume the average gas price of $2.50 per gallon and an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon. With a total distance of 112 miles, you will need approximately 4.48 gallons of gas for this journey. Hence, the fuel cost alone will amount to $11.20.
Apart from the fuel cost, there are also tolls along the way. On this route, you will encounter a toll at the Sagamore Bridge, which costs $3.00 for a passenger vehicle. Therefore, considering both the fuel cost and toll fee, the total estimated cost for Route 1 is approximately $14.20.
Route 2: Scenic Coastal Drive
If you prefer a more scenic and leisurely drive, you may want to consider taking the coastal road. This route will offer picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and charming coastal towns. However, it is slightly longer than the traditional highway route.
The distance between Barnstable and Lowell via the coastal drive is about 135 miles. Given the winding roads and lower average speed, the travel time for this route will be slightly longer, estimated to be around 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Using the same gas price and fuel efficiency assumptions as before, you will need about 5.4 gallons of gas for this route, resulting in a fuel cost of approximately $13.50. Additionally, you will encounter tolls at the Sagamore Bridge ($3.00) and the Ted Williams Tunnel ($2.75). Considering both the fuel cost and toll fees, the total estimated cost for Route 2 comes to about $19.25.
Route 3: Scenic Backroad Adventure
For travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, Route 3 offers a scenic backroad adventure. This route allows you to explore the beauty of Massachusetts countryside, with opportunities to spot quaint farms and historic landmarks along the way.
The distance from Barnstable to Lowell on this route is approximately 139 miles. Considering the narrow roads and lower speed limits, the travel time for this option will be slightly longer, taking around 3 hours.
Utilizing the same average gas price and fuel efficiency as mentioned earlier, you will require about 5.56 gallons of gas for this route. Therefore, the fuel cost will amount to $13.90. Additionally, you will pass through the Sagamore Bridge toll booth ($3.00) and have another toll at the I-495 tunnel ($2.00). Combining the fuel cost and toll fees, the total estimated cost for Route 3 is approximately $18.90.
Conclusion
When planning a road trip from Barnstable to Lowell, it's essential to consider the cost of travel. Based on the current gas prices and toll fees, here's a summary of the estimated costs for each route:
- Route 1 (Highway): Distance of 112 miles, time of 2 hours, and an estimated cost of $14.20.
- Route 2 (Coastal Drive): Distance of 135 miles, time of 2 hours and 40 minutes, and an estimated cost of $19.25.
- Route 3 (Backroad Adventure): Distance of 139 miles, time of 3 hours, and an estimated cost of $18.90.
Ultimately, the best route for your journey depends on your preferences for travel time, scenery, and budget. We hope this information helps you make an informed decision and enjoy your road trip adventure to Lowell, Massachusetts!