Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Duxbury to Beverly, Massachusetts: A Journey Worth Taking
Traveling from Duxbury to Beverly offers an engaging glimpse into Massachusetts' beautiful landscapes and charming towns. The driving distance between these two locations is approximately 50 miles, but the route you choose can significantly impact both the travel time and the cost of your trip, particularly considering current gas prices. In this article, we will explore various routes, their distances, estimated travel costs, and recommend the best option for your journey.
Understanding Current Gas Prices
Before diving into the specific routes, it's essential to consider the current gas prices in Massachusetts. As of October 2023, the average price for regular gasoline hovers around $3.40 per gallon. This average fluctuates depending on various factors, including local demand, seasonal changes, and global oil prices. For calculation purposes, we will use this figure as a baseline to estimate fuel costs for the trip.
Estimating Fuel Efficiency
The fuel efficiency of your vehicle plays a vital role in determining the overall cost of your trip. For this article, we will assume an average car fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg). This means that for every 25 miles driven, the vehicle consumes one gallon of gasoline.
You can calculate the fuel cost using the formula: [ \text = \left(\frac{\text}{\text}\right) \times \text ]
With an average gas price of $3.40 and assuming a vehicle that gets 25 mpg, the formula turns into: [ \text = \left(\frac{\text}{25}\right) \times 3.40 ]
Route 1: The Direct Route via Route 3 and Route 128
This route is the most straightforward option to get from Duxbury to Beverly. Starting on Route 3, drivers will head north, eventually merging onto Route 128 North. This option covers approximately 50 miles and takes you through some of the major highways for a quicker journey.
- Distance: 50 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Fuel Cost: [ \left(\frac{50}{25}\right) \times 3.40 = 6.80 \text ]
Route 2: Scenic Route via Route 53 and Historic Towns
For those who enjoy picturesque drives and charming towns, this scenic route takes you through Route 53 and Routes 127 and 128. Departing from Duxbury, you will head northeast, passing through towns such as Pembroke and Kingston before joining Route 127. This adds more scenic views but extends the distance.
- Distance: 57 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Fuel Cost: [ \left(\frac{57}{25}\right) \times 3.40 = 7.68 \text ]
Route 3: Coastal Route Along Route 3A
If you're craving ocean views, consider taking the coastal route using Route 3A. This drive runs parallel to the coast, showcasing beautiful seaside vistas, beach towns, and local shops. You will travel through Marshfield and Scituate before heading northward toward Beverly.
- Distance: 62 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Fuel Cost: [ \left(\frac{62}{25}\right) \times 3.40 = 8.49 \text ]
Route 4: The Backroads via Route 36
Another alternative includes taking less-traveled roads through various rural areas. Starting on Route 36, you will connect to Route 139 and then continue towards Route 62. While this option provides a tranquil drive, it results in additional distance and potentially longer travel time.
- Distance: 65 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Fuel Cost: [ \left(\frac{65}{25}\right) \times 3.40 = 8.74 \text ]
Comparing the Routes
Here’s a breakdown of the essential information for easy comparison:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Travel Time | Fuel Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Route | 50 | 1 hour 10 minutes | 6.80 |
| Scenic Route | 57 | 1 hour 30 minutes | 7.68 |
| Coastal Route | 62 | 1 hour 40 minutes | 8.49 |
| Backroads Route | 65 | 1 hour 50 minutes | 8.74 |
Recommended Route
Considering the distance, drive time, and cost factors, the Direct Route via Route 3 and Route 128 emerges as the best choice for a trip from Duxbury to Beverly. This route optimizes travel time and minimizes fuel expenses, making it the most practical option for those looking to enjoy a smooth journey without extensive diversions.
Conclusion
The trip from Duxbury to Beverly is a delightful journey through Massachusetts, presenting various route options to suit different preferences and needs. Choosing the Direct Route via Route 3 and Route 128 provides the most efficient drive, covering about 50 miles with an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 10 minutes, while costing around $6.80 in fuel. Whether you're visiting for work or enjoying a day out in Beverly, this route ideally balances time, cost, and convenience.