Hershey to West Point Road Trip: Essential Guide

The route from Hershey, Pennsylvania to West Point, New York covers 175 miles via I-78, I-81, and I-87, typically taking 3.5 hours without stops. This corridor traces the northern edge of the Great Appalachian Valley, offering views of the Kittatinny and Shawangunk ridges. Notably, the Susquehanna River crossing near Harrisburg marks a geological boundary between the Piedmont and Ridge-and-Valley provinces.

For a comprehensive approach to discovering stops along any route, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The most efficient path is I-78 east to I-81 north in Hazleton, then I-84 east to I-87 south near Newburgh. Key exits: Exit 28 (Hershey), Exit 151 (Lebanon), Exit 50 (Allentown), Exit 71 (Milford, PA), Exit 16 (West Point). Expect tolls on I-87: approximately $5.50 for cars through the Harriman Toll Plaza (exit 16).

• Fuel cost estimate: $25-$35 depending on vehicle, as gas prices average $3.50/gallon in PA and $3.70 in NY.
• Best fuel stops: TA Travel Center in Harrisburg (I-81 mile 77) and Love's in Stroudsburg (I-80 exit 309).
• Road quality: Excellent on interstates; local roads in Delaware Water Gap can be winding.

Rest areas: The I-78 westbound rest area near New Smithville (mile 13) offers clean facilities and picnic tables. For longer breaks, consider the Hamburg rest area on I-78 eastbound at mile 33, which has a McDonald's and ample parking.

This route is generally safe, but be cautious on I-81 near Hazleton where truck traffic is heavy. Winter weather can affect I-84 in the Poconos; check conditions via 511PA. For families, the Hershey's Chocolate World (departure point) is perfect for kids, and the Crayola Experience in Easton (I-78 exit 71) offers 90 minutes of indoor fun.

• Pet-friendly stops: Hickory Run State Park (I-80 exit 274) has a dog-friendly beach; the Dutchess Rail Trail near West Point allows leashed dogs.
• Fatigue management: Plan breaks every 2 hours at the Jon Boat Rest Area (I-84 eastbound mile 38) or the Stewart Airport Service Area (I-87 southbound mile 22).

Hidden off-route gem: The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe (20 min detour from I-476) offers 70-minute train rides through a gorge. Another is the Shawangunk Wine Trail near New Paltz (30 min detour from I-87), with 16 wineries.

The route crosses three distinct landscapes: the rolling farmlands of Lebanon Valley, the forested ridges of the Appalachian Mountains, and the Hudson Highlands. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area at the PA/NJ border features the Delaware River cutting through the Kittatinny Ridge - a must-photograph viewpoint from I-80 eastbound.

• Natural attractions: Appalachian Trail crossing near Port Clinton; Hawk Mountain Sanctuary (detour 10 min south of I-78); Minnewaska State Park Preserve near West Point (climbing trails).
• Local commerce: Visit the Cabela's in Hamburg (I-78 exit 29) for outdoor gear; the Allentown Farmers Market for locally made pretzels; the Newburgh Waterfront for antique shops.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are absent directly on route, but the nearby Moravian Church Settlements in Bethlehem (25 min detour) are inscribed as a World Heritage site. Alternatively, the Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater is 3 hours west - too far for this drive.