Ellsworth to Bar Harbor loop

The Ellsworth to Bar Harbor loop is a substantial ride. On average, cyclists can expect to complete this 91.6-kilometer (57-mile) route in about 4 hours, 20 minutes of riding time. This duration can vary based on your fitness level, speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

This route is categorized as 'moderate' and generally requires good fitness due to its length and an elevation gain of nearly 790 meters (2,592 feet). While it's mostly on well-paved surfaces, the rolling to hilly terrain means it's best suited for experienced cyclists rather than absolute beginners.

The Ellsworth to Bar Harbor loop primarily features well-paved road surfaces, making it ideal for race bikes. You'll encounter rolling to hilly terrain with several climbs throughout the ride. While the main route is paved, it's worth noting that some areas within Hancock County, particularly near Acadia National Park, also offer gravel carriage roads if you wish to explore off the main route with a different bike type.

This loop offers diverse and stunning scenery, including lakes, mountains, and the rugged Atlantic coastline, especially as you approach Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. You'll pass through Downtown Ellsworth and by the Ellsworth Waterfront Park and Marina. Closer to Bar Harbor, you'll experience Bar Harbor Main Street and the beautiful Eagle Lake. The route provides access to the picturesque landscapes of Acadia National Park, including potential views of the Park Loop Road.

Yes, the Ellsworth to Bar Harbor loop intersects with or runs parallel to several other paths for short sections. Notably, it includes parts of the East Coast Greenway (ME), Maine State Route 1, and various trails within the Acadia National Park area such as the Eagle Lake Loop, Great Meadow Loop, and the Eden Shared-Use Path.

As a road cycling route, dogs are generally permitted if they are on a leash and do not interfere with traffic or other cyclists. If you plan to extend your ride into Acadia National Park, dogs are allowed on all 100 miles of carriage roads and most hiking trails, but must always be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. They are not permitted in public buildings, on ranger-led programs, or at Sand Beach (June 15 – September 8).

While there isn't a specific permit required for the Ellsworth to Bar Harbor loop itself, a significant portion of the scenic beauty and potential extensions are within Acadia National Park. If you plan to enter Acadia National Park, an entrance pass is required. You can purchase passes online or at various locations within the park. For current fee information, please check the official National Park Service website: nps.gov.

The best time to cycle this loop 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. Summer offers warm temperatures and lush scenery, while fall provides spectacular foliage. Winter cycling is possible but challenging due to cold temperatures, snow, and ice.

You can typically find parking in Ellsworth, especially near Downtown Ellsworth or the Ellsworth Waterfront Park and Marina, which serve as good starting points for the loop. Alternatively, parking is available in Bar Harbor, though it can be busier, especially during peak season. Consider starting early to secure a spot, particularly if you're beginning in Bar Harbor.

The primary challenge is the moderate difficulty due to its length and elevation changes, requiring good fitness. An insider tip for those seeking to extend their ride or experience more of Acadia National Park is to incorporate sections of the Park Loop Road. While the main loop is road cycling, Acadia's famous carriage roads offer a different, car-free experience, though they are gravel and might require a different bike setup or preference. Ellsworth is also known as a 'premier trail town,' so you'll find good cycling support in the area.

Yes, as the route connects Ellsworth and Bar Harbor, you'll find opportunities for food and water. Downtown Ellsworth and Bar Harbor Main Street offer numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel. It's always wise to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the sections between the towns.