Cost of a Scenic Trip from Dover, NH to Kennebunkport, ME Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a trip from Dover, New Hampshire, to Kennebunkport, Maine, can be an exciting endeavor. This journey offers stunning views and charming small towns, but to enjoy it fully, you need to consider the costs involved, particularly in terms of fuel. With current gas prices hovering around $3.25 per gallon, an understanding of the different routes and their associated costs is crucial for budget-conscious travelers. In this article, we’ll explore the various routes to take, their distances, estimated fuel costs, and ultimately recommend the best option for your trip.
Overview of the Distance and Routes
The distance between Dover, NH, and Kennebunkport, ME, is approximately 35 to 45 miles, depending on your chosen route. This relatively short distance makes the trip ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway. However, the routes taken can significantly affect travel time, fuel consumption, and cost.
Route 1: Via US-1 and ME-9
- Distance: Approximately 36 miles
- Estimated Time: 50 minutes
- Route Details: Start on Dover's local roads, merge onto US-4 towards NH-16 N, and eventually join US-1 S. Follow US-1 until reaching Kennebunkport.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
Assuming an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the total gallons of fuel needed for the trip would be:
[ \text = \frac{\text}{\text} = \frac{36}{25} = 1.44 \text ]
Now, multiplying the fuel needed by the current gas price yields:
[ \text = \text \times \text = 1.44 \text \times 3.25 \text{ dollars/gallon} \approx 4.68 \text ]
Route 2: Via I-95 and ME-9
- Distance: Approximately 43 miles
- Estimated Time: 45 minutes
- Route Details: Begin on local roads to merge onto NH-16 N, then take exit 3 for I-95 N towards Portland. Finally, take exit 25 for ME-9 S to Kennebunkport.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
Again, using the same vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the total gallons of fuel needed for this longer route would be:
[ \text = \frac{43}{25} = 1.72 \text ]
Calculating the cost gives:
[ \text = 1.72 \text \times 3.25 \text{ dollars/gallon} \approx 5.59 \text ]
Route 3: Backroads through ME-9 and ME-35
- Distance: Approximately 42 miles
- Estimated Time: 1 hour
- Route Details: This scenic route includes taking local roads through areas like Berwick and Wells before finally reaching Kennebunkport by using ME-35.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
For this route, with the same mile-per-gallon estimate of 25:
[ \text = \frac{42}{25} = 1.68 \text ]
Thus, the cost is:
[ \text = 1.68 \text \times 3.25 \text{ dollars/gallon} \approx 5.46 \text ]
Comparison of Routes and Costs
Now that we’ve calculated the costs for each of the potential routes, let’s summarize the information clearly:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time | Fuel Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Via US-1 and ME-9 | 36 | 50 minutes | 4.68 |
| Via I-95 and ME-9 | 43 | 45 minutes | 5.59 |
| Backroads through ME-9 and ME-35 | 42 | 1 hour | 5.46 |
The shortest and most cost-effective route is clearly the first option: Via US-1 and ME-9. Although it takes slightly longer in terms of travel time, it provides a more pleasant experience as it traverses closer to the coastline with beautiful views, especially during the summer and fall months.
Recommendations
When making the trip from Dover, NH, to Kennebunkport, ME, the recommended route is via US-1 and ME-9, as it balances cost, distance, and scenic beauty. This route allows travelers to enjoy the rolling coastal scenery along with charming towns, which enrich the travel experience.
Extra Tips
1. Trips Made on Weekdays vs. Weekends
Fuel prices may vary depending on the day of the week due to demand fluctuations. As such, try to fill up your tank during the more affordable days, if possible.
2. Eco-Friendly Driving
To minimize fuel consumption, consider employing eco-driving habits such as maintaining a steady speed and reducing idle time.
3. Check for Local Events
Kennebunkport hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Checking the events calendar can enrich your visit and make it worthwhile.
Conclusion
Your trip from Dover, NH, to Kennebunkport, ME, should take approximately 50 minutes via the recommended route using US-1 and ME-9. With a fuel cost of around $4.68 based on current gas prices, this scenic route minimizes expenses while maximizing the enjoyment of New England's beautiful coastal scenery. Take advantage of the opportunity for exploration, whether you’re stopping for a bite to eat or simply enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the way. Safe travels!