I-81 around Scranton
The Triptik we received suggests that we exit I-81 around Clarks Summit to the PA Turnpike and re-enter I 81 a little past Scranton. Has anyone used this route around Scranton, and if so, is it worth it?
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- No need for it. Did it once 2 years ago and found the road actually a little rougher. Never found the traffic around Scranton a problem.
- Went through Scranton about eight times in the last four years and I have never had a problem except for a car fire.
- If you are traveling weekdays between 6:30 AM AND 8:00 PM the turnpike option is a great choice. I travel the area at least once a month.
Scranton has construction going on right now and the lanes are a little narrower than normal. IN addition the area between Clark's Summit and Wilkes Barre can be very congested. In fact the speed limit is lower through the area because of construction and the congestion.
Contrast that to the turnpike which has little traffic and very few exit ramps. I would use the turnpike in a heartbeat. Just because of the less headaches and confusion.
When you exit the turnpike in Wilkes Barre there are gas stations right at the exit so you can fill up and go onto 81.
Weekends and after 8 PM I would stay on 81
PS I was through there 10 days ago. - If you are talking about the NE extension of the turnpike it was really rough when I used it a few years ago. I personally would stay on 81. More direct, fewer miles.
- We went through there in late September. we didn't go through at rush hours but it was fine. 24 foot class c
nbking wrote:
The Triptik we received suggests that we exit I-81 around Clarks Summit to the PA Turnpike and re-enter I 81 a little past Scranton. Has anyone used this route around Scranton, and if so, is it worth it?
I would just stay on I 81... We drive I 81 thru Scranton in both directions several times a year connecting from and to I 84...
JohnnyT- Up and down that section of I81 a couple of times a year (winter and summer) since 1980. Went through Scranton on I81 a few times in the early years but now always use the Turnpike as suggested by your Trip Tik. Worth it to us to avoid the traffic. We find it a much easier drive. Need to stop twice at toll stations. Used to be attendants at the toll booths but now throw coins into the basket. Won't take CDN coins.
