The best MTB trails in Franklin County
5.0
(1)
117
riders
11
rides
Mountain biking in Franklin County, Maine, offers diverse terrain characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and scenic river valleys. The region features a mix of challenging mountain ascents and more gentle paths around ponds and through forests. This landscape provides varied conditions for mountain bikers, from technical singletrack to longer, endurance-focused routes.
Best mountain bike trails in Franklin County
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Sugarloaf Mountain – The Viewpoint loop from Village Gated Parking, a difficult 26.9…
Last updated: May 27, 2026
28
riders
17.3km
01:37
280m
280m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
1
riders
15.1km
01:37
400m
400m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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38.7km
03:23
530m
530m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
19.1km
01:45
280m
280m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
25.4km
02:36
830m
820m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.77km
00:15
40m
40m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
32
riders
15.8km
01:28
220m
220m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
25
riders
43.4km
04:05
710m
710m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
14
riders
21.3km
01:58
340m
340m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
11
riders
13.4km
01:11
140m
140m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
Of all the huts in the Maine Huts and Trails System (https://mainehuts.org/), Stratton Brook Hut is the highest at ~1880 ft. The elevation climb from Stratton Brook trailhead to the hut is about 600 ft. This snowshoe trail is a great way to unwind in the winter, if you don't feel like skiing.
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Monataka Loop is a nice, popular blue singletrack trail located just across from the Kennebec Highlands. This trail can be ridden both directions and is a nice trail for beginners with good views over Long Pond. You can also combine it with the popular A-Trail to McGaffey Mountain Crown loop (across the road) as a quick warm up for more advanced riders. This is also a popular spot for snowmobiling and other snow sports during the winter months.
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The Kennebec Highlands is a designated public reserve that offers various recreational activities, including mountain biking. The area is known for its diverse trail network that provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. There are several mountain biking trails here at Kennebec Highlands, but the most popular route is the A-Trail to the McGaffey Mountain Crown loop, which takes you past the summit of McGaffey Mountain on challenging terrain.
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McGaffey Mountain is 1,181 feet tall and located in the Kennebec Highlands, between the towns of Vienna and Rome, Maine. The trail up to the summit is the McGaffey Mountain Crown, and is one of the hardest trails in the Kennebec Highlands. This rough, natural singletrack trail is ridden clockwise, and brings you back to the A-Trail after riding past lichen gardens, blueberry patches, and great views.
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Just outside of Farmington, there is a ski area at Titcomb Mountain. The ski hill has two lifts and a handful of greens, blues, and blacks. Titcomb Mountain is affordable and family-oriented. There is a cafeteria and fire pit to relax at while the kids are taking classes. In the summer, the area is home to amazing cycling trails and large meadows of wildflowers.
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Sugarloaf is one of the tallest mountains in Maine, at 4,237 feet. This resort has year round activities in Carrabassett Valley, with 1240 skiable acres of skiing in the winter and golfing, biking & more in the summer.
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Poplar Hut is a popular destination by bikers, hikers, and skiers. People can reserve rooms here to stay the night (in advance). The hut is surrounded by gorgeous forest and there is a waterfall close by.
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Esker Trailhead is the beginning of a fairly short trail to get to a glacial esker. The path, which is ADA accessible, winds past a meadow at the beginning and through a mix of hardwood and softwood forests. The trail ends at a viewing platform that overlooks a 5,000 acre wetland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails can I find in Franklin County?
Komoot features 10 mountain bike trails in Franklin County. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from easy loops to challenging mountain ascents, catering to different skill levels.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Franklin County?
Yes, Franklin County offers trails suitable for various skill levels. For an easier ride, consider the Monataka Loop, which is an easy 1.7-mile trail with minimal elevation gain. While the region is known for its more challenging terrain, there are options for those seeking a less strenuous experience.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Franklin County?
The mountain bike trails in Franklin County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from dense woodlands to scenic river valleys, and the challenging ascents that offer expansive views.
When is the best time of year for mountain biking in Franklin County?
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't detailed in the guide, Franklin County's varied landscapes, including rolling hills and wooded areas, suggest that spring, summer, and fall would offer pleasant riding conditions. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.
Are there any interesting natural sights or landmarks to explore near the mountain bike trails?
Yes, Franklin County is rich in natural beauty. Near the trails, you can find highlights such as Mount Redington and Saddleback Mountain, offering impressive summits. For scenic water features, explore Natanis Pond or Tumbledown Pond. The region also features unique spots like the Wildflower Meadows at Titcomb Mountain.
Are there any long-distance mountain bike trails in Franklin County?
Yes, for those looking for longer rides, the Sugarloaf Mountain – The Viewpoint loop from Village Gated Parking is a challenging 26.9-mile trail. Another excellent option is the Maine Huts Trail Loop, which covers 24.1 miles and connects to the region's hut system.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes available?
Many of the trails in Franklin County are designed as loops, offering a complete riding experience. Examples include the Stratton Brook Hut Loop and the Redington Pond Loop, both providing a return to your starting point.
What are some challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?
Experienced riders will find several challenging options. The Sugarloaf Mountain – The Viewpoint loop from Village Gated Parking is a difficult 26.9-mile trail with significant elevation gain. Other difficult routes include the Redington Pond Loop and the Sugarloaf Mountain loop from Parking Lot C.
Are there any mountain bike trails that offer significant elevation gain?
Yes, Franklin County is characterized by mountainous terrain, and several trails offer substantial elevation gain. The Mount Blue via Hedgehog Hill trail, for instance, features over 800 meters of ascent, providing a demanding climb and rewarding views.
Can I find mountain bike trails that connect to hut systems?
Yes, the Maine Huts Trail Loop is a notable route that winds through varied forest landscapes and connects to the region's hut system, offering opportunities for multi-day adventures or a convenient stop.
Are there any mountain bike trails near Farmington?
Yes, you can find mountain biking opportunities near Farmington. The Mountainbike loop from Farmington is a moderate 8.3-mile trail that starts from the town, offering a convenient option for local riders.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Franklin County?
Franklin County's mountain bike trails feature diverse terrain, including rolling hills, dense woodlands, and scenic river valleys. You can expect a mix of technical singletrack, forest paths, and mountain ascents, with conditions varying from rocky sections to smoother dirt trails.
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