The Cost of Driving From Bellefonte, Pennsylvania to Portland, Maine

Are you planning a road trip from Bellefonte, Pennsylvania to the charming city of Portland, Maine? It's a beautiful journey that will take you through picturesque landscapes and historic towns along the way. But before you hit the road, let's discuss the cost of your trip, including gas prices and tolls, so you can budget accordingly.

Route 1: The Scenic Route

If you're in the mood for a leisurely drive and want to soak in the stunning views, this scenic route is for you. Starting from Bellefonte, follow I-99 N to I-80 E, and then take I-84 E towards Portland. The total distance of this route is 429 miles and it will approximately take you 7 hours and 15 minutes to reach your destination.

In terms of cost, let's consider the gas prices. As of writing this post, the average gas price in Bellefonte is $2.75 per gallon. With an estimated fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon, you'll need around 14.3 gallons of gas for this journey. So, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $39.33.

Additionally, there are a few tolls that you'll encounter along the way. The main toll on this route is the Pennsylvania Turnpike, which costs $19.20 for a passenger vehicle. Keep in mind that this is just one-way, so you'll need to factor in the same cost for your return trip.

Route 2: The Quicker Option

If you're short on time and prefer a faster route, this option will get you to Portland in a shorter span. Start by taking I-99 N from Bellefonte, then merge onto I-80 E. Next, take I-81 N and continue until you reach I-84 E towards Portland. This route covers a total distance of about 425 miles and you can expect to arrive in approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes.

When it comes to gas prices, the same averages apply as in the previous route. So, you'll need around 14.2 gallons of gas, resulting in a cost of approximately $38.95.

Similar to the scenic route, tolls are also part of this journey. In addition to the Pennsylvania Turnpike toll, you'll come across toll booths at various locations, such as the Delaware Water Gap Toll Bridge and the Connecticut Turnpike. The total cost for tolls on this route is roughly $35.00 (one-way).

Route 3: The Middle Ground

If you're looking for a balance between speed and scenery, this third option might be your best bet. Begin by taking Route 220 N from Bellefonte towards Port Matilda, then merge onto I-80 E and I-476 N. Continue on I-476 N until you reach I-84 E towards Portland. This route spans approximately 455 miles with an estimated travel time of 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Considering the gas prices, you'll need around 15.2 gallons of gas for this journey, resulting in a cost of approximately $41.80.

Just like the previous routes, tolls are a factor here as well. This route includes the Pennsylvania Turnpike and the tolls along I-476 N, totaling around $29.50 for a passenger vehicle (one-way).

Final Considerations

Remember, gas prices and toll fares are subject to change. It's always a good idea to check for the most up-to-date information before embarking on your journey. Additionally, keep in mind the wear and tear on your vehicle, personal preferences for scenic areas or faster highways, and the need for breaks and rest along the way.

Road trips offer a fantastic opportunity to explore different places, enjoy stunning landscapes, and create lifelong memories. By considering the cost of your trip in advance, you can focus on enjoying the journey while staying within your budget. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure from Bellefonte, Pennsylvania to Portland, Maine!

Note: The calculated fuel cost is based on an average gas price and vehicle efficiency. The mileage may vary depending on the specific vehicle and real-time gas prices.