The best cycling routes around Bar Harbor
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Touring cycling around Bar Harbor is defined by the diverse landscapes of Acadia National Park, featuring historic crushed-rock carriage roads and paved scenic routes. The region offers a rugged coastline, granite peaks, and numerous serene lakes and ponds. Cyclists can explore dense forests and wetlands, with routes providing varied terrain from gentle paths to challenging mountain ascents.
Best touring cycling routes around Bar Harbor
- The most popular touring cycling route is Tri Lakes Loop, a 20.5 miles (33.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 56 minutes to complete. This route winds through Acadia National Park on historic carriage roads, offering scenic views of lakes.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Cadillac Mountain & Otter Cliffs loop, a difficult 32.1 miles (51.6 km) path. This route combines coastal views along the Park Loop Road with a challenging ascent to Cadillac Mountain.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Stone bridge – Eagle Lake Carriage Road loop from Bar Harbor, a 27.9 miles (44.9 km) trail leading through historic carriage roads and past Eagle Lake, often completed in about 4 hours 9 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Bar Harbor is defined by historic carriage roads, dramatic coastline, and granite peaks. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to difficult mountain climbs.
- The routes in Bar Harbor are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 35 reviews. More than 800 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Bar Harbor's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
5.0
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230
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33.0km
02:56
390m
390m
The Tri Lakes Loop offers a moderate touring bicycle ride through Acadia National Park, covering 20.5 miles (33.0 km) with 1282 feet (391 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to spend around 2 hours and 56 minutes exploring this route. As you cycle, you will pass Eagle Lake, Jordan Pond, and Bubble Pond, enjoying views across the water. The path winds through cool forests and over charming stone bridges, providing glimpses of the iconic Bubbles mountains across Jordan Pond.
This route largely follows Acadia's historic Carriage Roads, which are free of motor traffic, making for a peaceful cycling experience. You won't need any special permits for this journey. Parking is usually available at various entry points within Acadia National Park, so you can choose a convenient starting spot. Plan your visit to enjoy the car-free paths and the natural beauty of the park.
The historic Carriage Roads themselves are a key feature of this loop, offering a unique way to explore the park without vehicle interference. These dedicated paths were designed to blend with the landscape, providing a smooth and scenic ride. This makes the Tri Lakes Loop a notable option for experiencing Acadia's natural and historical charm on two wheels.
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167
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51.6km
03:40
870m
870m
Embark on the Cadillac Mountain & Otter Cliffs loop, a challenging touring bicycle ride that spans 32.1 miles (51.6 km). You will experience diverse scenery, from lush pine forests to rugged coastlines, as you cycle along the paved Park Loop Road. The route features a significant mountain ascent, gaining 2859 feet (872 metres), culminating in panoramic views from the summit of Cadillac Mountain. This difficult ride, estimated to take 3 hours and 39 minutes, also passes dramatic landmarks like Otter Cliffs, offering classic ocean vistas.
This route demands very good fitness, particularly for the steep grades on the ascent to Cadillac Mountain. The Park Loop Road can be congested, winding, and narrow in some sections, with no shoulder, so cycling during peak hours between 10 am and 4 pm is generally not advised. You should be prepared for varying road conditions, including sections of historic crushed rock Carriage Roads. Plan your start time carefully to avoid crowds and ensure a safer experience.
This loop offers a unique combination of Acadia National Park's natural beauty, blending coastal views with a substantial mountain climb. The route provides an excellent opportunity to see iconic park features like Thunder Hole and the dramatic Otter Cliffs. Reaching the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast, rewards you with unparalleled panoramic views of Frenchman Bay and Bar Harbor, making it a truly memorable touring bicycle experience.
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26
riders
20.9km
01:32
490m
490m
Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure to the Cadillac Mountain summit, a difficult route that spans 13.0 miles (20.9 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1604 feet (489 metres). As you pedal up the paved Cadillac Summit Road, you'll encounter several scenic pull-offs offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The journey, which typically takes around 1 hour and 32 minutes, culminates in breathtaking panoramic vistas from the summit, including a clear sight of Eagle Lake. This ride is particularly rewarding for experienced cyclists seeking a strenuous climb with an incredible payoff.
When planning your visit, remember that while vehicle reservations are often required to drive to the summit during peak season, you as a cyclist do not need one. This offers a more direct and potentially less crowded way to experience the mountain, especially if you choose an early morning start. Be mindful that the winding road is shared with vehicle traffic, so always exercise caution and stay alert. Consider starting your ride before dawn to witness one of the United States' first sunrises from the summit, a truly unique experience.
Cadillac Mountain holds a special distinction as one of the first places in the United States to greet the sunrise, making an early morning ascent particularly memorable. The route takes you through Acadia National Park, offering a unique perspective of its rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems. Reaching the summit provides not just a physical accomplishment but also an opportunity to soak in the vastness of the coastal landscape, a defining feature of this iconic national park.
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88
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30.6km
02:08
390m
390m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
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115
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27.2km
02:24
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful old stone bridge dating from 1928.
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Eagle Lake is the largest glacial lake in Acadia National Park. The wide crushed gravel paths of the carriage roads circumnavigate the shoreline, with access points to the water and dramatic views of the mountains.
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At the end of the 19th century, Desert Island became a tourist attraction. The Green Mountain Cog Railway, a cog railway, was in operation from 1883 and took tourists to the summit of Green Mountain, today's Cadillac Mountain (from 1918), where they could enjoy the breathtaking view. The railway ran from Eagle Lake to the summit over a distance of around 1.8 km. When passenger numbers declined, the railway service was discontinued in 1891. In the following years, the railway line was completely dismantled. Today, only remnants of the route remain. The Buckboard Road was built in the late 19th century, leading up to the summit along the north ridge. However, the journey was only possible by horse-drawn carriage and tourists preferred to walk up the mountain. https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/secrets-of-the-summit.htm The paved ‘Cadillac Mountain Road’ was completed between 1929 and 1932. The more than six kilometer long route is considered an exceptional example of construction work in mountainous terrain. https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/motor-road-history.htm
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Bar Harbor?
There are over 15 touring cycling routes around Bar Harbor, offering a variety of experiences from moderate loops to challenging mountain climbs. The komoot community has explored these routes over 800 times, highlighting the region's diverse terrain.
What types of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Acadia National Park?
You'll find a mix of terrain, primarily the historic crushed-rock carriage roads and paved sections of the Park Loop Road. The carriage roads offer a car-free experience with varying lengths and climbs, while the Park Loop Road provides dramatic coastal views but is shared with vehicular traffic. Some gravel roads on the western side of Mount Desert Island are also open to biking, though they can have deep ruts.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Bar Harbor?
Yes, Acadia National Park's carriage roads are generally excellent for families, offering a car-free environment. Routes like the Witch Hole Pond Loop (4.7 miles) are popular for their scenic beauty and manageable distances. For a slightly longer option, the Tri Lakes Loop is a moderate 20.5-mile route winding through the park.
Can I bring my dog on the bike paths in Acadia National Park?
Dogs are generally welcome on the carriage roads in Acadia National Park, provided they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. It's always a good idea to check the most current regulations on the National Park Service website for any updates or specific restrictions: nps.gov/acad.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I can see while cycling?
Many routes offer stunning views. You can cycle past iconic coastal features like Sand Beach and Thunder Hole along the Park Loop Road. The carriage roads feature picturesque stone bridges and lead to serene spots like Jordan Pond. For panoramic vistas, the challenging ascent to Cadillac Mountain Summit offers breathtaking views.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the most popular touring cycling routes in Bar Harbor are circular. Examples include the Tri Lakes Loop, the Stone bridge – Eagle Lake Carriage Road loop from Bar Harbor, and the Cadillac Mountain & Otter Cliffs loop, which combines coastal views with a mountain ascent.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Bar Harbor?
The best time for touring cycling in Bar Harbor is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and all park facilities and services are usually open. Fall foliage can be particularly stunning, though routes may be busier.
Is public transport available to access bike trails, and can I bring my bike?
Yes, the free Island Explorer shuttle service operates within Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. It's a great option for tired cyclists or those wanting to access different parts of the park without driving, as it offers bike racks. This can help you reach various trailheads or return after a long ride.
Are e-bikes allowed on the touring cycling routes?
Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist, up to 20 mph) are permitted on the carriage roads, making the rolling hills and longer distances more accessible for many cyclists. This allows more people to enjoy the extensive network of scenic paths within Acadia National Park.
Where can I park my car when starting a touring cycling route?
Parking is available at various access points to the carriage roads and Park Loop Road within Acadia National Park. Popular starting points often include the Hulls Cove Visitor Center or parking areas near Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake. Be aware that parking lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Bar Harbor?
The touring cycling routes around Bar Harbor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 35 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the unique experience of the car-free carriage roads, the dramatic coastal scenery, and the well-maintained paths that offer a blend of natural beauty and historical charm.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes for beginners?
Yes, there are several easier options, particularly on the flatter sections of the carriage roads. While specific 'easy' routes aren't explicitly named in the data, the region offers 3 routes classified as easy. The carriage roads provide a gentle introduction to touring cycling, allowing you to choose shorter loops or out-and-back sections to suit your comfort level.
Can I find cafes or places to eat along the bike trails?
While the carriage roads themselves are mostly natural, you'll find amenities and dining options at key points within Acadia National Park and in Bar Harbor. Jordan Pond House, for example, is a well-known spot near the carriage roads for refreshments. Bar Harbor town also offers numerous cafes and restaurants easily accessible from the park's entrances.
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