Bar Harbor Main Street

Embark on the Mount Desert Island loop, a challenging road cycling adventure spanning 89.3 miles (143.7 km) with a significant 6276 feet (1913 metres) of elevation gain. This route takes you nearly 7 hours to complete, offering a full immersion into Maine's rugged coastal beauty. You will experience diverse landscapes, from dense forests to rocky headlands, and pass by iconic spots like Otter Cove, where the ocean meets the shore. The ride combines smooth paved roads with some sections that might be unpaved, providing expansive views of the ocean and mountains throughout.

When planning your ride, be aware that the Park Loop Road can become very congested with cars during peak season, especially in July and August. This can make cycling hazardous due to limited shoulder space. To enjoy a less crowded experience, consider starting your ride early in the morning. The ascent to Cadillac Mountain is particularly steep and lacks a shoulder, so it is best avoided during busy times for your safety.

This extensive loop offers a unique opportunity to explore the entirety of Mount Desert Island, showcasing the natural splendor of Acadia National Park. You will encounter landmarks such as Jordan Pond and have the chance to see the historic Bass Harbor Light Station. The route is designed for those with very good fitness, providing a comprehensive tour of the island's varied terrain and stunning vistas.

Embark on the Cadillac Mountain and Bar Harbor Figure-8, a difficult road cycling route that challenges you with its significant climbs and rewards you with expansive coastal views. This demanding ride covers 47.6 miles (76.6 km) and features an impressive 3726 feet (1136 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 49 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you will experience diverse scenery, from the panoramic vistas atop Cadillac Mountain to the charming coastal stretches along the Park Loop Road.

This route is best suited for strong and experienced cyclists due to the strenuous ascent of Cadillac Mountain. While a car reservation system is in place for Cadillac Summit Road, you do not need one to access it by bike. Consider starting your ride early in the morning to enjoy the one-way sections of Park Loop Road with fewer cars, enhancing your cycling experience.

The Cadillac Mountain and Bar Harbor Figure-8 is notable for showcasing the unique glaciated coastal landscape of Acadia National Park. You will pass iconic features like Jordan Pond and the historic Bar Harbor Main Street, offering a blend of natural beauty and local charm. This route provides an excellent opportunity to explore the park's diverse environment and its renowned landmarks by bike.

This moderate cycling route offers a diverse experience across 23.1 miles (37.1 km) with a total elevation gain of 1408 feet (429 metres), typically taking about 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. You will transition from the rugged coastal scenery of Acadia National Park, passing landmarks like Otter Cove, to the serene inland forests. The ride then shifts onto historic crushed gravel carriage roads, winding through lush woodlands and connecting tranquil waters such as Eagle Lake and Witch Hole Pond, often via unique stone bridges.

Before you begin this racebike adventure, remember that an Acadia entrance pass is required for all cyclists within the park. You can access the Carriage Roads from Bar Harbor via routes like West Street Extension or Ledgelawn Street, leading to Great Meadow Drive. Be prepared for mixed surfaces, including both paved sections and crushed gravel, and anticipate some challenging climbs, particularly on the Around the Mountain portion of the loop.

This route stands out for its unique blend of coastal and forest environments, allowing you to experience the varied landscapes of Acadia National Park in a single ride. The historic carriage roads, originally built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., provide a car-free cycling experience through the park's interior. These well-maintained gravel paths and their distinctive stone bridges offer a glimpse into the park's rich history and natural beauty.