The Cost of a Trip between Bridgton, Maine and Avon, Connecticut Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling from Bridgton, Maine, to Avon, Connecticut, can be quite a distance cover, thus incurring a considerable amount of expenses. However, the cost of traveling between these two places largely depends on the mode of transportation one chooses.
Possible Routes
There are several possible routes from Bridgton, Maine, to Avon, Connecticut. These routes differ in distance, traffic, terrain, and number of tolls. The most popular routes are:
Route 1: ME-302 W and I-95 S
This is the shortest route from Bridgton, Maine, to Avon, Connecticut, covering a distance of 220.4 miles. The route starts by following ME-302 W, and then continues towards I-95 S, passing through Portsmouth, New Hampshire. However, this route is usually congested, especially during rush-hour traffic and during weekends.
This route also goes through multiple tolls, which could add to the overall cost of traveling. The toll prices vary depending on the toll plaza and time of day. The cost of tolls, combined with the price of gas, could make this route more expensive than other routes.
Route 2: US-302 W and I-91 S
This is another popular route, covering a distance of 225.8 miles. This route takes a more scenic route, passing through the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. Although the route is longer, it does not have as many tolls as Route 1.
Starting at Bridgton, Maine, travelers taking this route follow US-302 W all the way to I-91 S. However, this route also has rush-hour traffic, which could affect the travel time and the travel experience.
Route 3: ME-35 W and I-295 S
This is the third possible route. Although it is slightly longer than Route 1, the distance between Bridgton, Maine, and Avon, Connecticut, covers 233.4 miles. This route follows ME-35 and I-295 S towards Portland and then towards Augusta.
From Augusta, travelers follow I-95 S towards Avon, Connecticut. This route is usually less busy than Route 1 and Route 2, making it more comfortable to drive. The route also has lesser tolls than Route 1.
Route 4: ME-35 W, ME-9 W, and I-495 S
This is the longest route from Bridgton, Maine, to Avon, Connecticut, covering 266.2 miles. This route takes a more scenic route, starting at Bridgton and following ME-35 W, ME-9 W, and I-495 S.
This route is mostly free of traffic, making it more comfortable to drive. However, it passes through several small towns, which could make the journey feel a bit longer. This route also has lesser tolls than Route 1.
Cost of Traveling
The cost of traveling between Bridgton, Maine, and Avon, Connecticut, depends on several factors, including:
Gas Prices
As of July 2021, the average gas price in Maine is $2.98 per gallon, while Connecticut's average gas price is $3.12 per gallon.
Considering a car that has a fuel efficiency of 25 mpg (miles per gallon) and covers a distance of 225 miles (the average distance between the two towns), the gas cost for the entire trip would be roughly $28. Furthermore, travelers can expect to pay more on Route 1 due to the additional tolls.
Tolls
As mentioned earlier, the tolls on Route 1 are higher than the other routes, and the cost could increase depending on the time of day and season. For example, during peak traffic hours, the toll price at Maine Turnpike Plaza could increase from $2.10 to $3.00.
The total cost of tolls on Route 1 is approximately $30, while the cost for routes 2-4 is approximately $18.
In essence, toll costs and gas prices can significantly affect the overall cost of traveling between Bridgton, Maine, and Avon, Connecticut.
Recommendation
Based on the above information, Route 3 seems to be the most reasonable option for traveling between Bridgton and Avon.
Not only does this route have fewer tolls, but it also offers a more comfortable driving experience. Although the route is slightly longer than Route 1, it is undoubtedly the most cost-effective and time-efficient option.
Conclusion
Traveling between Bridgton, Maine, and Avon, Connecticut, can be quite expensive depending on the mode of transportation one chooses. Routes differ in distance, traffic, terrain, and number of tolls. However, Route 3 seems to be the most reasonable option for traveling between the two towns, and travelers can expect to cover a distance of 233 miles in approximately 4 hours and 12 minutes.