Mountain Division and Presumpscot River Loop

This touring bicycle loop is approximately 15.5 km (9.6 miles) long and generally takes around 57 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your cycling pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The loop offers a diverse cycling experience. The Mountain Division Trail sections are largely easy and flat, with some paved parts and others featuring hard-packed dirt and grass. However, there are also portions with 'hilly gravel path' that are considered moderate. The Presumpscot River Trail sections are more varied, including some flat paved areas, but also 'flowy singletrack' with challenging uphills, narrow dirt tracks, wooden bridges, and potentially rooty and steep sections.

While parts of the Mountain Division Trail are easy and suitable for beginners, particularly the paved and hard-packed sections, the Presumpscot River Trail can be more challenging. Touring cyclists should be prepared for unpaved, potentially technical, and steep sections along the river. It's a varied route that might be best for beginners comfortable with mixed terrain.

The loop offers several points of interest. You'll cross an old railroad bridge over the Presumpscot River and pass by historical sites such as the ruins of a canal and the Oriental Powder Mill. A significant highlight is Babb's Bridge. The Presumpscot River Preserve also features exceptional river views and deep ravines.

You can expect picturesque views throughout. The Mountain Division Trail offers open woods, farm fields, and a rural landscape. Along the Presumpscot River Trail, you'll experience the Presumpscot River Preserve with its river views, wooded upland areas, and boardwalks traversing wet areas. Keep an eye out for waterfowl and, in spring, large numbers of alewives in the rapids.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official trails. You'll cycle along parts of the Sebago to the Sea Trail, the Mountain Division Rail Trail, and the Presumpscot River Trail. Other intersecting paths include the Westbrook-Windham Bike Route, Snowmobile ITS 89, and the Cumberland-Oxford Canal Towpath.

Specific parking areas are available for accessing both the Mountain Division Trail and the Presumpscot River Trail. For the Mountain Division Trail, look for designated parking in Westbrook or Windham. For the Presumpscot River Trail, parking is typically available near the Presumpscot River Preserve trailheads. It's advisable to check local maps for the most convenient access points.

Yes, the Mountain Division and Presumpscot River Loop is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are typically allowed on a leash. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically from spring through fall. Spring offers the chance to see alewives in the rapids and lush greenery, while fall provides beautiful foliage. Summer is also excellent, but be prepared for potentially warmer temperatures. Winter cycling may be possible on some sections, but conditions can be variable due to snow and ice.

No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Mountain Division and Presumpscot River Loop. It is a publicly accessible multi-use trail system.

Touring cyclists should be prepared for significant variations in trail surface. While the Mountain Division Trail offers easy, paved, and hard-packed sections, the Presumpscot River Trail can introduce more rugged terrain, including 'flowy singletrack,' narrow dirt paths, and potentially steep, rooty sections. It's a route that rewards a bike capable of handling mixed surfaces.