The best cycling routes around Belfast
3.3
(3)
31
riders
11
rides
Touring cycling routes around Belfast offer a diverse landscape for exploration. The region features a mix of coastal paths, greenways, and routes leading to lakes and bridges. Terrain varies from relatively flat sections along the East Coast Greenway to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain. The area provides opportunities for cyclists to experience both natural scenery and local landmarks.
Best touring cycling routes around Belfast
- The most popular touring cycling route is Belfast to Bayview, a 20.4 miles (32.8 km) trail that takes 2 hours 9 minutes to complete. This moderate route features coastal views and varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is East Coast Greenway: Belfast to Sears Island Loop, a moderate 21.9 miles (35.2 km) path. This route follows a greenway, offering a generally accessible cycling experience.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Quantabacook Lake via East Coast Greenway, a 30.6 miles (49.3 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 3 hours 9 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Belfast is defined by coastal paths, greenways, and routes leading to lakes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate rides to more difficult challenges.
- The routes in Belfast are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.3 stars from a few reviews. More than a few dozen touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Belfast's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.0
(1)
9
riders
32.8km
02:09
430m
430m
The Belfast to Bayview touring cycle route offers a true taste of Maine's coastal charm, guiding you through a delightful blend of small-town scenery and expansive ocean vistas. You'll pedal along dedicated paths and public roads, with opportunities to explore the Belfast Rail Trail's unpaved sections. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including seals and nesting eagles, as you pass by the scenic Passagassawakeag River and through the historic Bayside, Maine.
This moderate 20.4-mile (32.8 km) ride, with its 1411 feet (430 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 9 minutes to complete. It requires good fitness, making it a rewarding challenge for experienced cyclists rather than beginners or very young children. Parking is readily available in Belfast, providing a convenient starting point for your adventure.
Connecting with several other trails like the East Coast Greenway (ME) and the Little River Trail, this route is celebrated for its diverse paths and coastal beauty. It's a fantastic way to experience Waldo County's characteristic ambiance, offering a unique perspective on the region's natural and historical highlights.
2
riders
35.2km
02:16
300m
300m
The East Coast Greenway: Belfast to Sears Island Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, weaving together the historic charm of Downtown Belfast with the rugged beauty of the Maine coastline. You'll pedal along the scenic Passagassawakeag River, enjoy views from the Belfast Harbor Walk, and explore the natural coastal landscapes of Sears Island, where you might even spot seals or nesting eagles near the Scenic Lookout Trail. This moderate 21.9-mile (35.2 km) route, with 988 feet (301 metres) of elevation gain, provides a diverse ride that feels like a true journey through MidCoast Maine.
Planning your ride is straightforward, with Belfast serving as an excellent starting point for this loop. While the route is primarily paved, be ready for some unpaved sections, such as the crushed-gravel Belfast Rail Trail, so a touring bicycle capable of handling varied terrain is recommended. The estimated duration is around 2 hours and 16 minutes, making it a perfect half-day adventure. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit for comfortable temperatures and stunning scenery.
This route is a notable segment of the much larger East Coast Greenway, a 3,000-mile network stretching from Maine to Florida, highlighting its significance within a national trail system. It uniquely combines cultural and natural experiences, offering a rich blend of historic towns and the wild beauty of Penobscot Bay. The connection to Sears Island provides a distinctive opportunity to delve deeper into Maine's coastal environment.
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2.0
(1)
1
riders
49.3km
03:09
360m
360m
This touring bicycle route offers a journey through Maine's mid-coast, starting from the charming town of Belfast and winding through diverse landscapes. You'll experience views over Penobscot Bay, cycle alongside the Passagassawakeag River, and eventually reach the tranquil Quantabacook Lake, a secluded spot known for its peaceful atmosphere. The trail combines paved roads, cycleways, and some unpaved sections, including the crushed-gravel Belfast Rail Trail, providing a varied and engaging ride.
To plan your visit, note that this moderate 30.6-mile (49.3 km) route with 1194 feet (364 metres) of elevation gain is estimated to take about 3 hours and 8 minutes. It requires good fitness due to the mixed terrain and some elevation changes. Starting in Belfast, ensure your bike is equipped for both paved and unpaved surfaces, and consider the best time of year for cycling Quantabacook Lake via East Coast Greenway, typically during warmer, drier months.
This route is a fantastic opportunity to experience a segment of the ambitious 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway, showcasing Maine's natural beauty and historic towns. It blends coastal scenery with inland tranquility, offering a unique perspective on the region. The inclusion of converted rail trails, like the Belfast Rail Trail, highlights a notable feature of many Greenway sections, providing smoother riding away from traffic.
59.4km
03:53
600m
600m
The Swan Lake loop from Belfast offers a robust touring cycling experience, winding through rural landscapes and past the scenic Swan Lake. This difficult 36.9-mile (59.4 km) route features a significant 1975 feet (602 metres) of elevation gain, making it a demanding ride that typically takes around 3 hours and 52 minutes. Expect a mix of paved and potentially unpaved sections, providing a varied terrain that keeps things interesting for experienced cyclists.
Planning your ride should account for the route's difficulty, which requires very good fitness. Starting from Downtown Belfast provides convenient access to amenities before you head out. While the route itself doesn't have specific access restrictions, be aware that some segments might be unpaved and challenging, so prepare your gear accordingly. Swan Lake State Park offers a pleasant spot for a break along the way.
This route stands out among popular cycling routes near Belfast, Maine, for its challenging profile and diverse scenery. Beyond the natural beauty of Swan Lake, the historic charm of Downtown Belfast provides a cultural counterpoint to the rural journey. For those seeking a less strenuous option, the nearby Belfast Rail Trail offers a smoother, flatter alternative, but this Swan Lake loop is for cyclists ready to earn their views.
57.4km
03:36
590m
590m
Cycle the difficult 35.7-mile Penobscot Narrows Bridge loop from Belfast, Maine, for coastal views and observatory panoramas.
4
riders
31.2km
01:58
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Belfast
Tips from the Community
Absolute interesting bridge and architecture
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This charming village on the shore of Penobscot Bay has the tagline of "A Happy Place". The highlight is the historic district made up of former religious camp buildings that have been well preserved and admitted into the National Register of Historic Places.
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Quantabacook Lake sits near the headwaters of the St. George River. It's rather secluded and a peaceful place to visit if you're in the area. The lake is a "popular" spot for fishing and canoeing but even at the busiest times it still isn't crowded.
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Swan Lake drains into Goose River. This strange naming conundrum might signify to some a sort of turf (or water) war between the two aquatic bird species. However, Swan Lake was formerly known as Goose Lake and only adopted its current moniker after the town of Swanville was founded on its shores. Swan Lake State Park sits at the north end of the lake and is popular for kayaking, swimming, picnicking, and fishing.
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Long Cove Headwaters Preserve is a small scrub-shrub habitat that provides a haven for rare early-successional species and songbirds. Hikers, joggers, and in the wintertime, snowshoers can follow the 1.2-mile Blue Trail loop, or extend their journey along the 2.3-mile Orange Trail, which both offer chances for wildlife encounters and birdwatching. Preserve guidelines prioritize low-impact recreation; please only visit during daylight hours, there are no campfires allowed, dogs must be on a leash after noon, respect the flora by avoiding vegetation removal, and please do not fly drones.
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The Penobscot Narrows Bridge replaced the historic Waldo Hancock Bridge in 2006. The older bridge was demolished in 2013 leaving the modern cable-stayed bridge in its place. A unique feature to this bridge is the Penobscot Narrows Observatory, which is the tallest bridge observatory in the world and the first ever to be constructed in the U.S. (open from May 1st - October 31st)
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Sandy Point Beach is one of Maine's rare sandy beaches. It's a popular spot for swimming and picnicking in the summer. It's also a good place for spotting birds and other wildlife as well as taking a walk or run on the small trail network.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Belfast?
There are over 9 touring cycling routes around Belfast listed in our guide, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These include moderate and difficult options, with a focus on coastal paths, greenways, and routes leading to lakes.
Are there any easy or family-friendly touring cycling routes in Belfast?
While our guide features mostly moderate to difficult routes, the region offers options suitable for all abilities. The East Coast Greenway: Belfast to Sears Island Loop is a moderate route that follows a greenway, providing a generally accessible cycling experience. Additionally, the Lagan Towpath, mentioned in regional research, is a mostly traffic-free path suitable for families.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Belfast?
The terrain around Belfast is diverse. You can find relatively flat sections along greenways and coastal paths, such as the East Coast Greenway. For those seeking more challenge, routes like Penobscot Narrows Bridge loop feature significant elevation gain. The region offers a mix of urban greenways, coastal paths, and more mountainous landscapes like Divis and the Black Mountain for varied experiences.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. For example, you can explore the East Coast Greenway: Belfast to Sears Island Loop or the Swan Lake loop from Belfast, Maine. Another option is the Penobscot Narrows Bridge loop. The wider region also features the 82-mile Strangford Lough Cycle Route.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features I can see while cycling?
Belfast and its surroundings offer stunning views. Routes like the Divis Ridge Trail and Cave Hill Country Park provide panoramic vistas of Belfast, Belfast Lough, and even Scotland on clear days. The Causeway Coastal Route, while longer, features breathtaking seascapes and natural wonders. You can also enjoy views of the Belfast Hills and the tranquil River Lagan along various paths.
What attractions or landmarks can I visit along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer access to interesting sites. You can cycle past the historic Harland and Wolff shipyards and the Titanic Belfast visitor centre. Our guide also highlights attractions such as Belfast City Park and City Point Station – Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad. Further afield, the Causeway Coastal Route provides access to historic castles like Carrickfergus and Dunluce.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. Our guide includes 5 difficult routes for those seeking a challenge. The Swan Lake loop from Belfast, Maine and Penobscot Narrows Bridge loop are examples of routes with significant elevation gain. The Divis Ridge Trail and the Mourne Mountains also offer challenging terrains and rewarding views.
What do other touring cyclists say about cycling in Belfast?
The touring cycling routes around Belfast are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.3 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to greenways and routes leading to lakes, and the opportunities to experience both natural scenery and local landmarks.
Can I access touring cycling routes using public transport in Belfast?
Belfast has a developing cycling infrastructure, and many routes are accessible from urban areas. While specific public transport connections for bikes vary, the city's public transport network can often get you close to trailheads. For detailed information on public transport options that accommodate bicycles, it's best to check local transport provider websites.
Are there any traffic-free cycling options in Belfast?
Yes, Belfast offers several traffic-free cycling options. The Lagan Towpath and the Comber Greenway are notable examples, built along disused railway lines or riverbanks, providing safe and pleasant rides away from vehicle traffic. The East Coast Greenway also offers a generally accessible and traffic-free experience.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Belfast?
Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Belfast, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the region's diverse landscapes can be enjoyed year-round. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter rides can be invigorating, though conditions may require appropriate gear and caution.
Are there any routes that lead to lakes or bodies of water?
Yes, several routes incorporate lakes and coastal views. The Quantabacook Lake via East Coast Greenway is a prime example, leading through varied landscapes to the lake. Additionally, routes along Belfast Lough and the River Lagan offer picturesque waterside cycling.
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