The best road cycling routes in Penobscot County

Penobscot County offers diverse landscapes for road cyclists. You'll find routes along the prominent Penobscot River, through extensive timberlands of spruce, fir, maple, and birch, and past numerous lakes and ponds. Some routes also provide distant views of mountains, including Mount Katahdin.

There are over 30 road cycling routes available in Penobscot County, catering to various skill levels. This includes 9 easy routes, 22 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options.

Yes, Penobscot County has 9 easy road cycling routes. For a relaxed ride, consider the Orono and Old Town loop, which is a moderate 22.1-mile path navigating through these towns, often alongside the Penobscot River. The Brewer Riverwalk also offers a flat, paved path for a leisurely experience.

The routes in Penobscot County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Cyclists often praise the mix of flat river-side paths and routes with rolling hills, as well as the varied scenery that includes river views, lakes, and extensive forests.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Bangor to Castine Figure-8 is a difficult 84.3-mile route that connects Bangor with the coastal town of Castine, offering varied scenery and significant elevation gain.

Many routes in Penobscot County hug the Penobscot River. The Old Town to Howland along the Penobscot River loop is a 50-mile moderate ride showcasing scenic views and historical towns. The East Coast Greenway: Penobscot River Loop also provides excellent views of the river.

Yes, Penobscot County is dotted with numerous lakes and ponds. The Harriman and Hancock Ponds loop is a 40.5-mile moderate route featuring well-paved surfaces and scenic views of these bodies of water.

Absolutely. The Bangor, Old Town, and Orono loop offers 27.3 miles of varied scenery, including urban sections and historic architecture. The Brewer Riverwalk is also a great option for cycling through a developed area with river views.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore several attractions. The Bangor Waterfront Park and Brewer Riverwalk offer pleasant settings. You might also pass by historic towns like Old Town with local cafes, or even catch a glimpse of Stephen King's House in Bangor.

While not directly on a road cycling route, the Shin Brook Falls are a notable natural feature in Penobscot County that you could visit as part of a broader exploration of the region.

The best time for road cycling in Penobscot County is typically from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the natural scenery, from lush forests to sparkling lakes, is at its most vibrant. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, the Katahdin Woods & Waters National Scenic Byway, which follows the Penobscot River, offers impressive views of the Katahdin region. You can also find panoramic views of Mount Katahdin from Ash Hill in Patten.