Is there a train to Martinsburg?

Yes, Amtrak's Capitol Limited stops in Martinsburg, but it does not serve Morgantown directly.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes between 3 hours and 3 hours 30 minutes.

There are no major toll roads on the direct I-68 route between these cities.

Is it a scenic drive?

Yes, the route through the Appalachian Mountains offers beautiful vistas, especially in autumn.

What is the best route?

Taking I-68 East to I-70 East and then I-81 South is the standard and most efficient path.

Morgantown

Martinsburg

Driving

Morgantown to Martinsburg

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Morgantown to Martinsburg spans approximately 200 miles across the northern mountains of West Virginia. You will primarily utilize Interstate 68 East, transitioning into Maryland before re-entering West Virginia near Hancock. This route is famous for the scenic Appalachian mountain passes and the transition into the Shenandoah Valley. Travel time typically averages 3 hours depending on traffic near the Cumberland gap. It is the most efficient way to reach the Eastern Panhandle from the university city of Morgantown.

Total Distance: 320 km driving distance; 230 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-68 and I-81 is the fastest route, taking approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method, costing roughly $35 in fuel.

Compare Morgantown to Martinsburg Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

3 hours 15 mins

Avg Price

$30-$45

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

I-68 E to I-70 E to I-81 S.

Check for construction near the Sideling Hill cut in Maryland before departing.

Travel Tips

Fuel Up Early
Gas prices are often lower in Morgantown than in the more tourist-heavy areas of the Eastern Panhandle.
Mountain Weather
Expect rapid weather changes in the mountains; keep an emergency kit in your trunk.
Traffic Alerts
Use a real-time navigation app to monitor I-81 congestion, which is common near the Virginia border.
Rest Stops
The Maryland Welcome Center on I-68 is a clean, well-maintained facility for a mid-trip break.
Speed Traps
Be mindful of speed limits in small towns along the route, as local police frequently monitor traffic.

Safety Tips

Deer Crossings
West Virginia roads are notorious for deer; avoid driving at dawn or dusk if possible.
Fog Awareness
Mountain valleys often experience dense fog; use low-beam headlights and reduce speed.
Winter Driving
I-68 can become icy quickly; ensure your tires are rated for winter conditions.
Cell Service
Expect intermittent signal loss in deep mountain valleys; download offline maps.