From the coast to the country, Maine has hundreds of miles of paved roads for road bikers who want to explore the state on two wheels, and there’s plenty of it to discover. Here, cyclists can head inland to cruise around picturesque rolling foothills or challenge themselves with a steep climb that winds through rugged mountain passes. Or pedal one of the iconic coastal routes, not only found in Acadia National Park’s Mount Desert Island, but on some of Maine’s other isles where riders can enjoy scenic, flowy tours on smooth tarmac where the cold Atlantic surf crashes dramatically against coastal bluffs. The state is also part of the long-distance, interstate trail project known as the East Coast Greenway that, when completed, will connect northernmost Maine to Florida.
One of the highlights of road biking in Maine is the sheer diversity of landscapes that can be covered in a range of mileage: be it extended distances during a multi-day tour, or a short but sweet road ride suitable for riders of all levels — this is what makes cycling in the Pine Tree State unique enough that you simply have to experience it firsthand.
The Bicycle Coalition of Maine is a non-profit that provides a comprehensive list of resources for road cyclists looking for routes and general information on biking in Maine. They also post about bike education, advocacy, maintenance, and a calendar full of year-round biking events, rides, and races for every kind of rider.
Summerfeet Cycling and Walking Tours leads single and multi-day road biking tours all throughout Maine. Perfect for groups or individuals who prefer traveling on two wheels with a warm bed and delicious meal at some of the state’s best destinations. Check out their curated inn-to-inn bike tours that are designed to be led by one of their experienced guides or provide the option to do a self-paced, self-guided tour of Maine’s most beautiful spots.
Portland to Cousin’s Island: This 30-mile loop goes along the Falmouth Foreside, with plenty of places to stop and grab a bite to eat or enjoy the view.
Capital Area: Enjoy rolling hills, farms and forests on this 42-mile loop from Augusta, the state capital, along the Kennebec River Trails, past Lake Cobbossee and through towns like Monmouth where you can admire Cumston Hall and grab a drink at Grateful Grain Brewery or at Winthrop’s Absolem Cider.
From Bethel through The Whites and Evan’s Notch: This challenging ride is great during spring, summer, or fall when the leaves turn color. This ride heads south through the foothills of the White Mountains. Along the way, you will enjoy views of three mountain ranges and scenic Evans Notch, part of the White Mountain National Forest.
United States Bike Route 501 This 654-mile-long route connects Bangor through the St. John Valley Cultural and Fish River National Scenic Byway and to New Brunswick, Canada. Following the Penobscot River, the route is relatively flat with no more than 50 miles between services and potato blossoms sweep every rolling hill as you enter the Crown of Maine.
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