The Cost of a Trip Between Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania and Shelter Island, New York

Introduction

Planning a trip between Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania and Shelter Island, New York? One of the most important considerations when embarking on a journey is the cost involved, especially given the rising gas prices in recent times. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each one, recommend the best route, and finally conclude with an overview of the trip route and estimated travel duration.

Possible Routes and Costs

Route 1: The Direct Route

The direct route between Cheltenham Township and Shelter Island spans a distance of approximately 200 miles. This route involves taking the Pennsylvania Turnpike west towards Harrisburg, then connecting to the Pennsylvania Route 283 East towards Lancaster. From Lancaster, you will head northeast on the Pennsylvania Route 222 towards Reading and Allentown. Continuing on the I-78 East will bring you into New Jersey, where you can connect to the I-287 North towards New York. Once in New York, head towards the Long Island Expressway (I-495 East), which will take you to Orient Point. From there, take the Cross Sound Ferry to Shelter Island.

Considering the average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, and assuming your vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for this route would be:

200 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 8 gallons of gas 8 gallons * $3.00 per gallon = $24.00

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you're looking for a more picturesque journey, you may consider taking the scenic route from Cheltenham Township to Shelter Island. This route adds a little extra distance but offers stunning views along the way. To embark on this route, head northwest out of Cheltenham Township towards Reading on the Pennsylvania Route 309. Continue on this road until reaching Tamaqua, where you can connect to the Pennsylvania Route 54 North towards Danville. From there, head west on the Pennsylvania Route 61 towards Williamsport. Once in Williamsport, switch to the I-180 East towards Laporte and eventually connect to the US-220 North.

Continuing on the US-220 North will take you through beautiful landscapes including the Endless Mountains of Pennsylvania and the Catskills of New York. As you approach the Hudson River, connect to the Greene County Route 31 and follow signs to the Rip Van Winkle Bridge. Once across the bridge, continue on the NY-23 East until reaching the Taconic State Parkway. Take the parkway south and connect to the I-684 North, which leads to the Cross Westchester Expressway (I-287 East) and eventually to the Long Island Expressway (I-495 East). From there, head towards Orient Point and catch the Cross Sound Ferry to Shelter Island.

Considering an additional distance of approximately 50 miles compared to the direct route, the estimated fuel cost for this scenic route would be:

250 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 10 gallons of gas 10 gallons * $3.00 per gallon = $30.00

Route 3: The Long Haul

If you're up for an extended adventure, you can opt for the long haul route. This particular route adds significantly more distance and may not be suitable for everyone. Starting from Cheltenham Township, head west on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, but instead of connecting to the Pennsylvania Route 283, continue west on the turnpike towards Pittsburgh. Follow signs to merge onto the I-76 West and continue on this road all the way to Ohio and the Indiana Toll Road (I-90). Traveling through Indiana and Illinois, you will eventually reach the home stretch in Michigan.

From Michigan, continue east on the I-80/90 Indiana Toll Road, which eventually becomes the Ohio Turnpike. After Ohio, you will enter Pennsylvania again, where you can reconnect to the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Continue east on the turnpike and exit on the Pennsylvania Route 476 North towards Scranton. In Scranton, connect to the Pennsylvania Route 81 North, which will lead you to Binghamton, New York. From there, head east on the New York Route 434, which connects to the I-88 East. Follow the I-88 East until it merges into the I-90 East and leads you to Albany.

In Albany, connect to the I-787 South and follow signs for the Berkshire Section of the New York Route 7. Once on the New York Route 7, continue east until reaching the Massachusetts Route 41/23. Follow this route until it connects with the New York Route 7 again, which will eventually turn into the Connecticut Route 41. Continue on the CT-41 South until arriving in Ridgefield, where you can connect to the US-35 Greenfield Hill Avenue. This road will lead you to the US-1 North, which eventually reaches Orient Point for the final leg of the journey to Shelter Island.

Given the extensive distance involved in this route, estimated to be around 550 miles longer than the direct route, the fuel cost can be calculated as:

750 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 30 gallons of gas 30 gallons * $3.00 per gallon = $90.00

Recommendation: The Direct Route

While the scenic route and the long haul may have their appeal, the direct route between Cheltenham Township and Shelter Island offers a balance between cost-efficiency and travel time. With the shortest distance and an estimated fuel cost of $24.00, this route ensures you arrive at your destination while keeping your wallet in check. Additionally, this route avoids any potential traffic congestion in major metropolitan areas on the scenic route and saves significant travel time compared to the long haul.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip from Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania to Shelter Island, New York requires careful consideration of the cost involved. Fuel prices have been on the rise, and the recommended direct route offers the most cost-effective solution. Covering a distance of approximately 200 miles, this route can be completed with an estimated fuel cost of $24.00, assuming an average gas price of $3.00 per gallon and a vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

Make sure to plan your trip ahead, account for any possible tolls, and consider the time it takes to drive to Orient Point and catch the Cross Sound Ferry to Shelter Island. All in all, the direct route provides a sensible balance of cost and travel time, ensuring you reach your destination without worrying too much about your fuel expenses. Safe travels!