Exploring the Shortest Route Through 10 U.S. States Without Repeating

Travel enthusiasts often wonder about the most efficient way to explore multiple U.S. states in a single journey. If someone wanted to drive through ten distinct U.S. states while minimizing the total distance, which route would be the shortest?

Shortest Route from Kittery, Maine

The absolute shortest distance to drive through ten U.S. states, without revisiting any, starts in Kittery, Maine. The recommended route is:

Take I-95 through New Hampshire Continue through Massachusetts Proceed through Rhode Island Move through Connecticut Drive into New York Enter New Jersey In south Jersey, stay on I-95 Travel into Pennsylvania Drive through Delaware End in Elkton, Maryland

This route covers a distance of just over 400 miles. However, if you include Vermont, the total distance increases by 50 miles. Therefore, Vermont should be avoided for the shortest route.

Alternative Route Starting in Portland, Maine

Another efficient route starts in Portland, Maine, and uses Interstate 95 (I-95 South) to travel through the following states:

Maine New Hampshire Rhode Island Connecticut New York New Jersey Pennsylvania Delaware Finish in Maryland before moving into Virginia

This route makes it easier to pick up four other states, including Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. Enjoy the journey!

Planning Your Ideal Route

For travelers interested in the shortest and most direct route through multiple states, consider the following tips:

Start in Kittery, Maine: This location provides the shortest route to ten different states, as noted above. Limit your route: Avoid states like Vermont, which can increase the overall distance significantly. Use interstate highways: Interstate highways (such as I-95) generally provide the most direct and efficient routes. Consider your starting point: Starting in Portland, Maine, allows you to easily access multiple states.

Final Thoughts

Driving through ten states without repeating any can be an incredible journey. With the right route and planning, you can minimize total travel distance and enjoy the diverse landscapes and attractions of the United States.

Keywords: shortest route through 10 states, U.S. interstate maps, travel distances