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Maine

Waldo County

Swan Lake loop from Belfast, Maine

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

United States

Maine

Waldo County

Swan Lake loop from Belfast, Maine

Hard

4.9

(4779)

15,870

riders

Swan Lake loop from Belfast, Maine

Q: What is the difficulty level of the Swan Lake loop, and what fitness level is required?

The Swan Lake loop is classified as a difficult touring bicycle ride. It covers approximately 59.4 kilometers (about 36.9 miles) with an elevation gain of around 600 meters (about 1,968 feet). Cyclists should have a very good fitness level to comfortably complete this route.

Q: How long does it typically take to complete the Swan Lake loop?

The estimated time to complete the Swan Lake loop is roughly 3 hours and 53 minutes, assuming a steady touring pace.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Swan Lake loop?

The route is predominantly on paved surfaces, making it suitable for road and touring bicycles. While mostly paved, it does feature significant elevation changes, contributing to its difficult rating.

Q: What are the notable sights and features along the Swan Lake loop?

The loop offers natural beauty, especially around Swan Lake . You'll also pass through Belfast City Park and sections of the Belfast Rail Trail . The charming Downtown Belfast is a great starting or ending point, and you can see the City Point Station – Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad .

Q: Where can I park and start the Swan Lake loop?

The loop starts and ends in Belfast, Maine. You can typically find parking in or near Downtown Belfast , which serves as a convenient starting point for the route.

Q: What is the best time of year to cycle the Swan Lake loop?

The broader region of Maine is known for its beautiful scenery, suggesting spring, summer, and fall offer pleasant cycling conditions. Summer provides opportunities for water activities at nearby Swan Lake State Park, while autumn would showcase vibrant foliage.

Q: Is the Swan Lake loop dog-friendly?

While the route itself is on public roads and trails, specific rules for dogs may vary in different sections or at points of interest like Swan Lake State Park. It's always best to check local regulations for any specific leash laws or restrictions before bringing your dog.

Q: Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this route?

Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle the Swan Lake loop itself, as it primarily uses public roads and trails. However, if you plan to visit nearby attractions like Swan Lake State Park, there might be separate entrance fees for park access or amenities.

Q: Does the route intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the East Coast Greenway (ME), Belfast Rail Trail, Harbor Walk, Hills to Sea Trail, Passagassawakeag Greenway, Armistice Bridge, Morehead Road, and Ford Gay Road.

Q: What type of bicycle is best suited for this loop?

Given that the route is predominantly on paved surfaces and is classified as a touring bicycle route, a touring bicycle or a road bike would be best suited for this loop.

03:53

59.4km

600m

Cycling

This difficult 36.9-mile touring cycling loop from Belfast, Maine, offers a challenging ride with 1975 feet of elevation gain near Swan Lake

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Includes a movable bridge

Check opening times.

After 56.4 km for 12 m

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

415 m

Belfast City Park

Highlight • Rest Area

The oldest park in Belfast, City Park is also one of its best equipped. You'll find tennis & basketball courts, playgrounds, ball fields, a concession stand and a swimming pool. …

Tip by

3.47 km

Belfast Rail Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

This crushed-gravel trail runs alongside the Passagassawakeag River. It's built on the railbed of what used to be the Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad, and is well-suited for walking, running, …

Tip by

6.74 km

City Point Station – Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad

Highlight • Historical Site

This historic train line is operated by the non-profit Brooks Preservation Society. You can ride along in 100+ year old train cars throughout the year. Different seasons offer unique themes such as Halloween & Christmas trains.

Tip by

45.1 km

Swan Lake

Highlight • Lake

Swan Lake drains into Goose River. This strange naming conundrum might signify to some a sort of turf (or water) war between the two aquatic bird species. However, Swan Lake …

Tip by

57.4 km

Downtown Belfast

Highlight • Settlement

Belfast is a seaport at the the mouth of the Passagassawakeag River estuary on Belfast and Penobscot Bays that has a rich history that is reflected in architecture and many …

Tip by

59.4 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

32.8 km

20.2 km

3.36 km

2.77 km

273 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

34.1 km

20.8 km

3.41 km

999 m

112 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (210 m)

Lowest point (0 m)

Weather

Today

Wednesday 27 May

27°C

14°C

23 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of the Swan Lake loop, and what fitness level is required?

The Swan Lake loop is classified as a difficult touring bicycle ride. It covers approximately 59.4 kilometers (about 36.9 miles) with an elevation gain of around 600 meters (about 1,968 feet). Cyclists should have a very good fitness level to comfortably complete this route.

How long does it typically take to complete the Swan Lake loop?

The estimated time to complete the Swan Lake loop is roughly 3 hours and 53 minutes, assuming a steady touring pace.

What is the terrain like on the Swan Lake loop?

The route is predominantly on paved surfaces, making it suitable for road and touring bicycles. While mostly paved, it does feature significant elevation changes, contributing to its difficult rating.

What are the notable sights and features along the Swan Lake loop?

The loop offers natural beauty, especially around Swan Lake. You'll also pass through Belfast City Park and sections of the Belfast Rail Trail. The charming Downtown Belfast is a great starting or ending point, and you can see the City Point Station – Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad.

Where can I park and start the Swan Lake loop?

The loop starts and ends in Belfast, Maine. You can typically find parking in or near Downtown Belfast, which serves as a convenient starting point for the route.

What is the best time of year to cycle the Swan Lake loop?

The broader region of Maine is known for its beautiful scenery, suggesting spring, summer, and fall offer pleasant cycling conditions. Summer provides opportunities for water activities at nearby Swan Lake State Park, while autumn would showcase vibrant foliage.

Is the Swan Lake loop dog-friendly?

While the route itself is on public roads and trails, specific rules for dogs may vary in different sections or at points of interest like Swan Lake State Park. It's always best to check local regulations for any specific leash laws or restrictions before bringing your dog.

Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this route?

Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle the Swan Lake loop itself, as it primarily uses public roads and trails. However, if you plan to visit nearby attractions like Swan Lake State Park, there might be separate entrance fees for park access or amenities.

Does the route intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the East Coast Greenway (ME), Belfast Rail Trail, Harbor Walk, Hills to Sea Trail, Passagassawakeag Greenway, Armistice Bridge, Morehead Road, and Ford Gay Road.

What type of bicycle is best suited for this loop?

Given that the route is predominantly on paved surfaces and is classified as a touring bicycle route, a touring bicycle or a road bike would be best suited for this loop.

Is the Swan Lake loop suitable for families or beginners?

Due to its difficult rating, significant distance (59.4 km), and considerable elevation gain (600 m), the Swan Lake loop is generally not recommended for beginners or young families. It requires a very good fitness level.