Driving Cost from Dover, New Hampshire to Belmont, New Hampshire

A picture depicting a gas pump

Breaking Down the Costs: A Trip from Dover to Belmont, New Hampshire

Traveling between Dover, NH, and Belmont, NH is a scenic journey that offers a glimpse into the beautiful landscapes of New England. Before embarking on your trip, it’s essential to consider not only the distance you’ll cover but also the cost associated with gas prices, the route changes, and the travel time. With current gas prices hovering around $3.50 per gallon, understanding the expenses helps you plan better.

Overview of the Journey

The distance between Dover and Belmont is approximately 70 miles, depending on the route you choose. Typically, the drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions, but factors like time of day and seasonal travel can affect the journey. Let’s break down a few popular routes to see how they compare.

Route Options

Route 1: I-95 N to NH-16 N

The most direct route starts with heading northwest on NH-108 and then merging onto I-95 N. After about 30 miles, take the exit for NH-16 N towards Portsmouth. This route will get you to Belmont with a mix of highway driving and local roads.

  • Distance: Approximately 70 miles
  • Estimated Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • Gas Consumption: Assuming your vehicle has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the trip will use about 2.8 gallons of gas.

Cost Calculation:

  • Gas Cost: 2.8 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $9.80

Route 2: NH-4 W to NH-106 N

An alternative route is to take NH-4 W from Dover. This road leads you to Concord, where you can switch to NH-106 N. This route offers a more scenic experience, passing through charming towns and rural areas.

  • Distance: Approximately 75 miles
  • Estimated Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
  • Gas Consumption: This route may be slightly less fuel-efficient due to more stop-and-go driving, averaging around 25 miles per gallon, leading to about 3 gallons used.

Cost Calculation:

  • Gas Cost: 3 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $10.50

Route 3: US-202 W to NH-106 N

Another possible route takes you on US-202 W. Start your journey on NH-156 and connect to US-202, which leads you towards Alton before you merge onto NH-106 N heading into Belmont.

  • Distance: Approximately 80 miles
  • Estimated Time: 2 hours
  • Gas Consumption: If you maintain an average of 25 miles per gallon, this route will result in about 3.2 gallons used.

Cost Calculation:

  • Gas Cost: 3.2 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $11.20

Summary of Costs and Routes

Here’s a quick summary of the routes discussed above:

Route Distance Time Gas Consumption Cost
I-95 N to NH-16 N 70 miles 1 hour 30 minutes 2.8 gallons $9.80
NH-4 W to NH-106 N 75 miles 1 hour 45 minutes 3.0 gallons $10.50
US-202 W to NH-106 N 80 miles 2 hours 3.2 gallons $11.20

Recommendations

While the choice of route often depends on your preference for scenic views or speed, the I-95 N to NH-16 N route proves to be the most cost-efficient and time-efficient option. It allows you to cover the distance quickly while saving on gas expenses. The roadways are primarily highway slabs, which enable straightforward driving, contributing to a smoother journey.

If you enjoy scenic drives and small towns, consider taking the NH-4 W to NH-106 N route. However, keep in mind that this route may add to your travel time and gas expenses.

If you find yourself needing a break during your journey, there are several quaint towns and attractions along the way. Stops could include:

  • Portsmouth: A historic maritime city with lovely architecture and waterfront views.
  • Dover: Known for its rich history and beautiful downtown area, perfect for a quick stretch.
  • Concord: The capital city of New Hampshire, offering various shopping and dining options.

Choosing any of these stops can enhance your travel experience. Remember to factor in additional time for these stops in your trip planning.

Conclusion

The drive from Dover, NH, to Belmont, NH, offers a glimpse of New Hampshire’s charming landscapes and rich history. Opting for the route via I-95 N to NH-16 N not only saves you money, costing approximately $9.80 in gas, but also shortens your travel time to about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Be prepared to enjoy a smooth ride that highlights the scenic elements of New England without overwhelming your travel budget. Whether you’re heading to Belmont for a weekend getaway or a short visit, this route will make your journey as enjoyable as the destination.