Block Island to Davis: A Coastal-to-Mountain Road Trip Guide

The journey from Block Island, Rhode Island to Davis, West Virginia spans roughly 550 miles, crossing six states and transitioning from coastal lowlands to Appalachian highlands. A quirky fact: Block Island's Mohegan Bluffs rise 200 feet above the Atlantic, while Davis sits at 3,200 feet in the Allegheny Mountains, making this a climb of exactly 3,000 feet in elevation from start to finish. This route takes you from a tiny island reachable only by ferry to a remote mountain town known for its wild trout streams and snow-covered winters. The drive itself—excluding ferry time—takes about 9 to 10 hours, but is best stretched over two days to savor the diverse landscapes. The key is to skip the interstate monotony and embrace backroads like Route 2 in Connecticut and the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. For those wondering is it worth driving Block Island, RI to Davis, WV, the answer is a resounding yes—provided you plan strategic stops. This guide covers how long to drive, things to do between, and the best stops along the way.

Below is a quick reference table for the major legs of the trip, including driving times without stops.

Start by taking the Block Island Ferry from Old Harbor to Point Judith or New London. The ferry ride itself is part of the adventure, with potential whale sightings. Once on mainland Rhode Island, follow Route 1 South to I-95 West. Navigational milestone: after crossing the Pell Bridge into Newport, you'll pass the Claiborne Pell Bridge toll ($4.00). Key highways include I-95 through Connecticut, I-91 into Massachusetts, then I-84 West into Pennsylvania. From Scranton, take I-81 South to I-80 West, then US-219 South into Maryland and West Virginia. Note that the last 30 miles from Oakland, MD to Davis are on winding two-lane roads (US-219 and WV-32) with limited cell service. Download offline maps before leaving.

• Ferry: Block Island Ferry (year-round passenger/vehicle service). Reservations recommended in summer. Cost: ~$50-100 for vehicle.
• Tolls: Expect tolls on I-95 in Connecticut ($1.50 at bridge), I-84 in Pennsylvania (approx $5 total), and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) if used as alternative.
• Fuel: Gas stations are abundant until you reach the Alleghenies. Fill up in Cumberland, MD before the final ascent.
• Estimated fuel cost (mid-size SUV): approximately $70-90 at current prices.

The route traverses four distinct eco-regions: the coastal sandplains of Rhode Island, the Southern New England forests of Connecticut and Massachusetts, the rolling hills of Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains, and finally the high-elevation spruce-fir forests of the Allegheny Mountains. The most dramatic landscape shift occurs in western Pennsylvania where the flat farmland gives way to steep wooded ridges. For more on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, check out this guide.

• Coastal Rhode Island: Block Island's Mohegan Bluffs, 200-foot clay cliffs, and the North Light lighthouse. Best visited early morning to avoid crowds.
• Connecticut River Valley: Stop at Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam for river views and quirky architecture. Excellent photo op.
• Pennsylvania's Ricketts Glen State Park: Just off I-80, this park boasts 22 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail. A 1-hour detour but unforgettable.
• Allegheny Front: The final approach to Davis crosses the Allegheny Front, a 2,000-foot escarpment. Look for the scenic overlook at Table Rock on US-219.

Local commerce along the way is a mix of classic New England antique shops, Amish markets in Pennsylvania, and Appalachian crafts. In Davis, the town's economy hinges on outdoor recreation: fly fishing, skiing at nearby Canaan Valley, and mountain biking. The Purple Fiddle (a music venue and cafe) is the cultural heart. Don't miss the Davis Farmers Market on Saturdays (June-October) for local produce and crafts.

Road quality is generally excellent on interstates but deteriorates on backroads in West Virginia. In winter, WV-32 and US-219 can be icy; carry chains or all-weather tires. Cellular coverage is spotty from Oakland, MD onward—download offline maps. For family suitability, plan breaks every 2 hours. Kid-friendly stops include the Mystic Aquarium (CT) near I-95, Cabela's in Hamburg, PA (with a massive aquarium and taxidermy), and the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium if you detour to I-76. Pet-friendly framework: Most motels along the route (Super 8, La Quinta) accept pets; call ahead. Rest stops with pet relief areas are common on I-84 and I-81.

• Recommended rest stops: I-84 Rest Area near Tolland, CT (clean, playground); I-81 Welcome Center near Carlisle, PA (pet area).
• Fatigue management: Use the Blue Ridge Parkway for a scenic but slower alternative, but note it adds time. Plan an overnight stop in Scranton or Harrisburg.
• Hidden off-route spot: Worlds End State Park (PA) on Route 154, a stunning gorge with a natural waterslide. Worth a 20-minute detour.