The best MTB trails in Bigelow Preserve
5.0
(1)
105
riders
7
rides
Mountain biking in Bigelow Preserve offers routes through a sprawling 36,000-acre state-owned nature preserve in western Maine. The region is characterized by the Bigelow Range, featuring seven summits and significant elevation changes, with West Peak reaching 4,150 feet. Diverse forest cover, including maple, birch, spruce, and fir trees, defines much of the landscape, which is also bounded by the expansive Flagstaff Lake to the north. Shared-use roads and dedicated mountain biking trails provide access to this varied terrain.
Best mountain…
Last updated: June 4, 2026
19.1km
01:45
280m
280m
The Redington Pond Loop is a difficult 11.8-mile mountain biking route in Carrabassett Valley, offering challenging terrain and pond views.
28
riders
17.3km
01:37
280m
280m
If you're looking for a challenging mountain bike ride, the Stratton Brook Hut Loop via Oak Knoll and Newton's Revenge delivers. This difficult 10.7-mile (17.3 km) route climbs 930 feet…
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
32
riders
15.8km
01:28
220m
220m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
38.7km
03:23
530m
530m
Mountain bike the moderate 24.1-mile Maine Huts Trail Loop, gaining 1739 feet through forests and past Flagstaff Lake viewpoints.
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.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Bigelow Preserve
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
Stratton Brook Pond serves as the perfect spot for a short break along your hike. Enjoy the tranquil setting of the lake with beautiful views of the surrounding mountain range and forest.
0
0
Right next to the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center, this trail leads you to Moose Bog Lake. Trail is a great place to start a ride, as it is a gentle uphill into the surrounding hills.
0
0
Located on the Redington Pond Trail in the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center area, this remote pond is a great destination to truly feeling like you are in the middle of nowhere. The pond is a great mid-ride stop for a quick swim, or if you are an angler the area is a great place to catch brook trout.
0
0
Beautiful views from the viewpoint on top of Oak Knoll. Located just a short distance away is Stratton Brook Hut, which has a cafe and offers hikers and bikers a place to rest before continuing on their adventures.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Bigelow Preserve?
Bigelow Preserve offers 7 mountain bike trails for you to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from moderate to difficult.
What are the difficulty levels of mountain bike trails in Bigelow Preserve?
The trails in Bigelow Preserve are primarily designed for experienced riders, with 5 difficult routes and 2 moderate routes. The terrain often features significant elevation changes, reflecting the mountainous landscape of the Bigelow Range.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in Bigelow Preserve?
Yes, several trails in Bigelow Preserve are loops. For example, you can ride the Redington Pond Loop, a challenging 11.8-mile route, or the Maine Huts Trail Loop, which covers 24.1 miles through diverse forest.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Bigelow Preserve?
You can expect varied terrain, including mountainous sections with significant elevation changes, diverse forest cover (maple, birch, spruce, fir), and areas offering lakeside views of Flagstaff Lake. Shared-use roads also provide access to parts of the preserve.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the mountain bike trails?
While mountain biking, you might encounter various natural features and landmarks. The preserve is dominated by the Bigelow Range, a National Natural Landmark. You can also find scenic tarns, beaver ponds, and a glacially scoured cirque. Notable points of interest include the Stratton Brook Hut and the Esker Trail.
Is Bigelow Preserve suitable for family mountain biking?
The mountain bike trails in Bigelow Preserve are generally rated as moderate to difficult, suggesting they are better suited for riders with some experience. While there are no explicitly easy trails, shared-use roads might offer more accessible options for families with older children or those seeking less technical rides.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about Bigelow Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the challenging terrain, the diverse forest cover, and the stunning views of Flagstaff Lake and the surrounding mountains, particularly from higher elevations.
Are there any specific permits required for mountain biking in Bigelow Preserve?
Bigelow Preserve is a state-owned nature preserve. While shared-use roads are designated for mountain biking, it's always advisable to check the official Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands website for any specific permit requirements or regulations before your visit. You can find more information on the preserve at maine.gov.
What is the best time of year to mountain bike in Bigelow Preserve?
Bigelow Preserve is a year-round destination, but for mountain biking, spring through fall generally offers the best conditions. The preserve experiences diverse forest cover, making autumn particularly scenic with fall foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as winter brings snow, making trails suitable for snowmobiling or cross-country skiing rather than mountain biking.
Are there any mountain bike trails that lead to a hut or facility?
Yes, the Stratton Brook Hut Loop via Oak Knoll and Newton's Revenge is a difficult 10.7-mile route that leads towards the Stratton Brook Hut, offering a destination point during your ride.
How long does it typically take to complete a mountain bike trail in Bigelow Preserve?
Trail durations vary depending on the route and your pace. For instance, the Redington Pond Loop typically takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, while the longer Maine Huts Trail Loop can take around 3 hours 23 minutes to complete.
Most popular attractions in Bigelow Preserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
