Kennebec River Rail Trail – Kennebec River Rail Trail loop from Vaughan Woods
Kennebec River Rail Trail – Kennebec River Rail Trail loop from Vaughan Woods
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Kennebec River Rail Trail – Kennebec River Rail Trail loop from Vaughan Woods
01:57
31.7km
240m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 24.8 km for 75 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.01 km
Kennebec River Rail Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
7.77 km
Waterfront Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
11.6 km
Iron Mine Hill
Highlight • Summit
24.9 km
Augusta
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
27.1 km
Kennebec River Rail Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
31.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
19.4 km
6.61 km
4.70 km
766 m
206 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
18.3 km
12.6 km
642 m
224 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 28 June
27°C
14°C
21 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a scenic and accessible touring cycling route in Maine, the Kennebec River Rail Trail delivers. This moderate route covers 19.7 miles (31.7 km) with 781 feet (238 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 57 minutes. While the Komoot route name includes 'Vaughan Woods,' it's crucial to understand that the Vaughan Woods trails themselves explicitly prohibit bicycles. This means you'll enjoy the excellent paved rail trail, but the 'loop from Vaughan Woods' aspect refers more to a starting point or nearby landmark rather than an actual cycling segment through the woods.
What to expect on Kennebec River Rail Trail – Kennebec River Rail Trail loop from Vaughan Woods
The Kennebec River Rail Trail is a joy for touring cycling, offering a smooth, paved, 10-foot-wide path that's mostly flat with gentle curves and slight hills to keep things interesting. You'll ride along the picturesque Kennebec River shoreline, passing through wooded areas and charming towns like Augusta, Hallowell, and Gardiner. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; eagles, herons, and ospreys are common sightings, and you might even spot Atlantic sturgeon or white-tailed deer. This trail is perfect for cyclists of all skill levels looking for an easy, enjoyable ride with plenty of scenic viewpoints.
Planning your visit
The Kennebec River Rail Trail is highly accessible, connecting the communities of Augusta, Hallowell, and Gardiner. Hallowell makes a pleasant halfway point if you're starting from either end, offering opportunities to explore its historic downtown or grab a bite. Parking is generally available in these towns. The trail is suitable for year-round use, though conditions will vary seasonally. Remember that while the trail is excellent for cycling, the nearby Vaughan Woods trails explicitly prohibit bikes, so plan your route accordingly if you wish to explore those areas on foot.
Trail details
- Distance: 19.7 miles (31.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 781 feet (238 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 57 minutes
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