Driving Cost from Dover, New Hampshire to Winn, Maine

A picture depicting a gas pump

Cost of a Trip from Dover, New Hampshire to Winn, Maine Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling between Dover, New Hampshire, and Winn, Maine, offers a scenic journey through New England, characterized by picturesque landscapes and charming small towns. In planning this trip, understanding the associated costs—primarily driven by gas prices—becomes essential. This article navigates potential routes and calculates the costs based on current gas prices while helping you choose the best path to take.

Current Gas Prices and Fuel Efficiency

As of October 2023, the average price of regular unleaded gasoline hovers around $3.50 per gallon in New England, although prices can fluctuate depending on the specific location and market conditions. Next, let's assume your vehicle offers an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon. Keeping these figures in mind will help you gauge how much you should expect to spend on fuel for your journey.

Total Distance

The distance between Dover, NH, and Winn, ME, is roughly 100 miles, depending on the route taken. Hence, calculating the fuel needed for this trip will be simple:

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For this journey:

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Given the current gas prices:

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Thus, the estimated fuel cost for the trip stands at approximately $14.

Route Options

Travelers can choose from different routes when making the trip from Dover to Winn. Each route varies in distance and scenery and may also affect overall travel time and fuel expenses.

Route 1: The Fastest Route via I-95 N and ME-5 N

This route is the most straightforward and typically takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, covering approximately 95 miles:

  1. Start on I-95 North from Dover.
  2. Merge onto ME-5 North via the exit toward Cornish.
  3. Follow ME-5 until you reach Winn, Maine.

This route consists primarily of highways, providing a smooth driving experience. Driving conditions are usually favorable, and it offers minimal stops along the way.

Route 2: Scenic Route via Route 4 and ME-202

If you prefer a scenic drive, take the Route 4 option. This route is about 104 miles and will take around 2 hours to complete:

  1. Head west on Route 4 from Dover.
  2. Continue on Route 4 through Barrington and to Alton Bay.
  3. Merge onto ME-202 at the intersection and follow it to Winn.

You’ll traverse some lovely countryside and small towns, offering a great opportunity to take in New England's charm.

Route 3: Backroads via ME-9

Another route involves taking more backroads. This detour takes roughly 2 hours and covers about 110 miles:

  1. Head north on NH-108 from Dover and merge onto ME-9.
  2. Continue along ME-9 through some rural parts of Maine.
  3. Follow the signs toward Winn.

While this road may be less direct, it offers stunning landscapes and further connects you to Maine's rural atmosphere.

Cost Analysis of Each Route

Let's assess the fuel costs for each of these routes based on their distances.

Route 1: Fastest Route via I-95 N

  • Distance: 95 miles
  • Gallons Needed: 3.8 gallons
  • Cost:
    • 3.8 gallons × $3.50 = $13.30 (approximately)

Route 2: Scenic Route via Route 4 and ME-202

  • Distance: 104 miles
  • Gallons Needed: 4.16 gallons
  • Cost:
    • 4.16 gallons × $3.50 = $14.56 (approximately)

Route 3: Backroads via ME-9

  • Distance: 110 miles
  • Gallons Needed: 4.4 gallons
  • Cost:
    • 4.4 gallons × $3.50 = $15.40 (approximately)

Summary of Costs and Recommendations

Here’s a quick summary of the gas costs for each route you might consider for your trip from Dover, NH, to Winn, ME:

  • Route 1 (I-95 N): $13.30
  • Route 2 (Route 4 and ME-202): $14.56
  • Route 3 (ME-9 backroads): $15.40

Considering both your budget and travel time, Route 1 (I-95 N) emerges as the best option. It provides a balance of speed and fuel efficiency while minimizing costs, making it the practical choice for most travelers.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dover, New Hampshire, to Winn, Maine, can take about 1 hour and 40 minutes, depending on the route you choose. Opting for Route 1 via I-95 N offers a cost-effective and quick traversal of approximately 95 miles, resulting in a fuel expense of around $13.30. Whether you select the fastest route or decide to explore the scenic alternatives, the journey promises to be rewarding, filled with the beauty of New England.