The best road cycling routes around Bangor

There are over 45 road cycling routes around Bangor, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include routes with varied coastal and inland landscapes, as well as paths through local areas with a balance of flat sections and gentle inclines.

Road cycling routes in Bangor feature diverse terrain, including scenic waterfront paths along the Penobscot River, rolling hills, and quiet countryside roads that wind through tranquil woodlands and open spaces. You'll find a mix of coastal views, farmlands, and serene lakes.

Yes, Bangor offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the East Coast Greenway: Bangor Waterfront Loop is an easy, paved 3.8-mile loop along the Bangor Waterfront, providing scenic Penobscot River views. Overall, nearly half of the routes in the area are considered easy, making them suitable for families or those new to road cycling.

Many routes in Bangor offer views of the Penobscot River. The Bangor Waterfront itself features paths like the Kenduskeag Stream Parkway, and routes such as the Bangor-Brewer Loop cross the river, providing scenic perspectives. The Bangor-Orrington Route also ventures inland with occasional glimpses of the Penobscot River.

While cycling around Bangor, you can encounter various attractions. For example, you might pass by the La Belle Fontaine or the historic Poulains Lighthouse. Other natural highlights include the dramatic L'Apothicairerie Cliffs and various scenic viewpoints like Panorama from Pouldon.

The road cycling experience in Bangor is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 37 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from scenic waterfront paths to quiet countryside roads, and the variety of routes suitable for different ability levels.

Yes, many road cycling routes around Bangor are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Bangor-Locmaria Red Loop – Great Sands loop from Le Palais, the Le Palais – Bangor loop from Bangor, and the Aiguilles de Port-Coton – Apothicairerie Cave loop from Bangor, all offering varied scenery.

The best time for road cycling in Bangor is generally from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, allowing you to enjoy the diverse landscapes, from coastal views to tranquil woodlands, without the challenges of winter conditions.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, Bangor serves as a starting point for more extensive routes. The USBR 501, for example, connects Bangor to the Canadian border, following scenic byways and offering paved roadways for long-distance cyclists.

Absolutely. The region around Bangor features several serene lakes that are incorporated into cycling routes. The Pushaw Lake Ride takes you alongside the sparkling waters of Pushaw Lake, and other routes may pass by Harriman Pond and Hancock Pond, offering beautiful scenery.

Yes, several routes connect Bangor with its neighboring communities. The Bangor-Brewer Loop explores the town of Brewer, crossing the Penobscot River. Another option is the Bangor, Old Town, and Orono Loop, which connects these three towns, offering varied scenery and elevation gain on well-paved surfaces.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Bangor to Castine Figure-8 is a notable option. This route is an 84.3-mile trail with significant elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience on mostly well-paved surfaces.