The Cost of a Trip Between Boston, Massachusetts and Hudson, Massachusetts on Current Gas Prices
Traveling from Boston, Massachusetts to Hudson, Massachusetts can be an enjoyable road trip through some of the most scenic areas of Massachusetts. The route options include two main highways: I-90 and MA-2. Each route offers a unique experience, and the cost and distance vary depending on the route chosen. Depending on the driver's preferences on speed, scenery, and tolls, the best option is usually a combination of the two routes.
Route Options
I-90 (Mass Pike)
The I-90 route is the quickest and most direct route between Boston and Hudson. It's a straight shot, with a length of 39.9 miles. This route involves using the Massachusetts Turnpike or Mass Pike, which charges drivers a toll. The cost of the toll depends on the time of day, vehicle type, and payment method, but drivers can expect to pay $7.70-$14.00 during peak hours using an E-ZPass, and $15.40 using cash. Drivers can expect to travel the 40 miles in around 40 minutes with light traffic.
MA-2
The MA-2 route is another great option, especially for drivers who enjoy a more scenic route. This highway stretches for 51.3 miles, with scenic views of mountains and forests throughout the journey. However, this route does take approximately 20 minutes longer than I-90, partly due to the lack of highways that accommodate high speed driving. Additionally, there is no toll cost on this route, making it the better choice for budget-conscious drivers.
Comparison of Cost and Distance
| Route | Distance | Tolls | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-90 | 39.9 miles | Yes | $7.70-$15.40 |
| MA-2 | 51.3 miles | No | $0 |
The table above shows a direct comparison of the cost and distance of each route. Taking I-90 costs significantly more due to the tolls, but drivers looking for a faster route should consider this option. The toll prices for I-90 can vary and can be confirmed via the Massachusetts MODOT website. However, drivers looking for a more scenic journey and do not want to factor in toll costs can choose MA-2.
Recommended Route and Tips
Travelers who have more time and prioritize sightseeing should take the MA-2 route. Drivers should choose this route when weather conditions are good because bad weather such as snow and ice can prolong the journey given the possibility of slow driving. In those instances, choosing I-90 is the safer option. Regardless of the route taken, drivers should stop for gas and snacks frequently, with suggested stops being at Lexington, Framingham, or Marlborough to avoid having to fill up in Hudson.
When departing from Boston, traffic can be heavy due to the bottleneck at the I-90 and I-93 intersection. For the quickest exit from the Boston area, drivers should consider taking the Tobin Bridge and I-93 north instead of the more common I-90 west. This route can save as much as 10-15 minutes of travel time during the morning and evening rush hours.
Conclusion
A trip from Boston to Hudson can be a beautiful and quick trip suitable for drivers seeking a shorter journey time or an extended scenic adventure. The decision on which path to take ultimately comes down to personal preference and circumstances. However, for time-conscious drivers, I-90 is the shortest and quickest route to travel and will arrive at their destination in approximately 40 minutes while budget-conscious drivers can choose MA-2 to avoid tolls. Travelers need to consider many factors such as weather, traffic, and the availability of fuel and food as they plan their trip. With these considerations in mind, drivers can embark on a journey and enjoy the scenic views as they travel from Boston to Hudson.