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Routes
Road cycling routes
United States
Maine
Kennebec County

Waterville

The best road cycling routes around Waterville

45

riders

15

rides

Road cycling routes around Waterville feature diverse landscapes, including scenic lake loops and river valleys. The region is characterized by rolling terrain, offering a mix of forested areas and open countryside. While many routes have moderate elevations, some incorporate more challenging climbs. This varied topography provides options for different fitness levels.

Best road cycling routes around Waterville

  • The most popular road cycling route is Messalonskee Lake loop from Waterville, Maine, a 37.7 miles (60.5 km) trail that takes 2…

Last updated: July 7, 2026

3

riders

#1.

Messalonskee Lake loop from Waterville, Maine

60.6km

02:45

480m

480m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate
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Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy
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Popular around Waterville

Cycling around Waterville

Running Trails around Waterville

Tips from the Community

Andrus
February 23, 2024, Colby College

Colby College sits on 714 acres at the top of Mayflower Hill in Waterville. It's known for its New-Georgian architecture, and has an enrollment of just 2,000 students.

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Andrus
February 23, 2024, Johnson Pond

Picturesque pond on the campus of Colby College. There are a number of benches around the pond to sit and enjoy the scenery.

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Andrus
January 8, 2024, Mill Island Park

Mill Island Park is a great little park in the middle of the Kennebec River. There are picnic area, walking paths, a playground, and more.

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This public footbridge was built in the early 1900s with a toll of 1 cent. After less than a year the original bridge was destroyed in a flood and subsequently rebuilt. The toll was also raised to 2 cents, which is where the common name comes from though the official name is still Ticonic Footbridge. These days there is no toll to cross the bridge, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

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Andrus
January 8, 2024, Augusta

Augusta, Maine's State Capital, sits along the banks of the Kennebec River. It's the 3rd smallest U.S. State Captial by population & offers a unique mixture of historic buildings, great restaurants, & ample opportunities to explore the river and other outdoor destinations.

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Andrus
January 5, 2024, Kennebec River

The 170 mile long Kennebec River is an important recreational and commercial resource for the region. Recently the runs of Atlantic Salmon have started to recover after the removal of the Edwards Dam.

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Andrus
January 4, 2024, China Lake

China Lake is a popular destination for water lovers of all stripes, including those that prefer it frozen. The lake and nearby town of the same name have no connection to the seemingly eponymous country of China. Instead the name derives from an old hymn by Timothy Swan that was popular around the time the town was founded.

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Andrus
January 4, 2024, Messalonskee Lake

Messalonskee Lake is one of 5 lakes within the Belgrade Lakes Region. It is a naturally occurring lake, though it has been artificially enlarged with a dam. It's a popular destination for fishing, boating, swimming, and bird & other wildlife spotting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes are available around Waterville?

There are 15 road cycling routes around Waterville, offering diverse landscapes and experiences. These include 6 easy routes, 8 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, catering to various skill levels.

What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Waterville?

Road cycling routes in Waterville feature a mix of scenic lake loops, river valleys, and rolling hills. You'll find forested areas and open countryside. While many routes have moderate elevations, some incorporate more challenging climbs, providing options for different fitness levels.

Are there routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?

Yes, Waterville offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Colby College – Johnson Pond loop from Colby College is an easy 10.7-mile (17.2 km) path, perfect for a relaxed ride. The Quarry Road Trails also offer wide gravel and grass paths suitable for various skill levels.

Are there more challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Kennebec River loop via the East Coast Greenway is a difficult 74.0-mile (119.0 km) trail with significant elevation changes, leading through the Kennebec River valley.

What natural features and scenic views can I expect on road cycling routes in Waterville?

You can expect picturesque lake views, river valleys, and rural landscapes. Routes often circle large bodies of water such as China Lake and Messalonskee Lake. The area also features rolling terrain with forested areas and open countryside, offering a beautiful backdrop for your ride.

Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the road cycling routes?

Yes, several routes pass by notable landmarks. You might encounter the historic Ticonic Footbridge (Two Cent Bridge), or pass through Mill Island Park. The Colby College campus and Johnson Pond are also points of interest along some routes.

Are there any circular road cycling routes around Waterville?

Many of the popular road cycling routes in Waterville are circular loops, designed to bring you back to your starting point while showcasing the region's beauty. Examples include the Messalonskee Lake loop from Waterville, Maine and the China Lake loop from Waterville, Maine.

Can I find routes that feature lakes?

Yes, lake views are a prominent feature of road cycling in Waterville. Routes like the Messalonskee Lake loop from Waterville, Maine and the China Lake loop from Waterville, Maine offer picturesque circuits around these large bodies of water.

Are there routes along rivers or rail trails?

Yes, the region offers routes that follow river valleys. The Kennebec River loop via the East Coast Greenway is a notable example. Additionally, the Kennebec River Rail Trail provides a paved option for cyclists.

What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Waterville?

The best time to go road cycling in Waterville is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. This period offers pleasant weather conditions for enjoying the scenic lake loops, river valleys, and rolling hills.

Are there family-friendly road cycling options in Waterville?

For families, the Quarry Road Trails, located just two miles from downtown Waterville, offer wide gravel and grass paths in meadows, suitable for various skill levels. These multi-use trails provide a safe and enjoyable environment for family cycling.

Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Waterville?

Parking availability varies by route. For routes originating near downtown, you may find public parking options. For trails like the Quarry Road Trails, dedicated parking is available. For routes starting in nearby towns, such as the Messalonskee Lake Loop from Oakland, parking can often be found in those communities.

Are there options for longer road cycling tours?

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, Waterville offers several extended routes. The Kennebec River loop via the East Coast Greenway is a substantial 74.0-mile (119.0 km) journey, and the Long Pond & Great Pond Loop is another longer trail at 48.8 miles (78.5 km) through the region's 'lake country'.

What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Waterville?

Over 40 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Waterville's varied terrain. Users frequently praise the scenic lake views, the mix of forested and open countryside, and the diverse range of routes that cater to different abilities, from moderate loops to more challenging climbs.

Most popular routes around Waterville

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