The best cycling routes around Bangor

There are 11 touring cycling routes around Bangor listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These include easy loops, moderate rides, and some more challenging options.

Yes, Bangor offers several easy touring cycling routes. A great option is the East Coast Greenway: Bangor Waterfront Loop, an easy 3.8-mile paved path offering scenic views along the Penobscot River. Another family-friendly choice is the Roland F. Perry City Forest loop from North Penjajawoc Forest, which is 4.2 miles through the expansive Bangor City Forest.

The terrain around Bangor is quite varied. You'll find paved waterfront paths, multi-use trails through extensive woodlands like the Bangor City Forest, and sections of the East Coast Greenway. While many routes are relatively flat, some, like the Farm & Hill Loop from Brewer, feature significant climbs and descents, offering scenic countryside views. The 5-Town Gravel Grind near Orono also offers a mix of local roads, rail trails, and gravel forest roads.

Yes, Bangor is part of the East Coast Greenway, a major draw for touring cyclists. Additionally, U.S. Bicycle Route 501 (USBR 501) connects Bangor to the Canadian border, following scenic byways and passing near Mount Katahdin, offering a long-distance paved route with services available.

Bangor's routes offer views of the Penobscot River and its revitalized waterfront. You can cycle through the expansive Bangor City Forest and the adjacent Walden-Parke Preserve. While bikes are restricted on the Orono Bog Boardwalk itself, it's a stunning natural attraction easily accessible by bike routes. Notable landmarks include Stephen King's House and the Bangor Waterfront Park. The Brewer Riverwalk also offers more well-maintained paths across the river.

Yes, many routes around Bangor are designed as loops. For example, the popular Bangor to Orono loop via East Coast Greenway is a moderate 21.5-mile circular route. The East Coast Greenway: Bangor Waterfront Loop is another easy circular option along the Penobscot River.

The touring cycling routes in Bangor are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often appreciate the diverse landscape, from riverfront paths to extensive city forests, and the connectivity to regional networks like the East Coast Greenway. Many enjoy the variety of options suitable for different ability levels.

For general information about trails and access within the city, you can visit the official Bangor city website. They often provide details on local parks and trail systems. For example, you can check bangormaine.gov/432/Trails for more information.

Absolutely. The Bangor to Orono loop via East Coast Greenway directly connects Bangor to the town of Orono. Additionally, routes like the Farm & Hill Loop from Brewer connect to other nearby areas like Orrington, Dedham, and Holden, showcasing the scenic countryside.

For those seeking more challenge, routes like the Bangor Waterfront – Kenduskeag Stream Bridge loop from Bangor International Airport offer a moderate 33.7-mile ride with more significant elevation changes. The Farm & Hill Loop, while not explicitly listed in the guide data, is known from regional research to feature notable climbs and descents, appealing to cyclists looking for varied terrain and a good workout.

Yes, the region offers routes with mixed terrain. The 5-Town Gravel Grind, starting and finishing in Orono, is a great example, featuring a combination of local roads, rail trails, and gravel forest roads, including some smooth singletrack sections. This provides a diverse experience for touring cyclists who enjoy varied surfaces.