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Cycling on Mount Desert
Island offers both the seasoned cyclist and the beginning biker a variety of
choices and experiences. The western side of MDI has a network of unpaved roads
commonly known as the Western Mountain Fire Roads. Located off the Seal Cove
Road, these roads allow bicycling to Seal Cove Pond as well as the public boat
launch located on the Cape Road in Seal Cove.
From Seawall Campground, one can cycle the Hi Ho Fire Trail to view the bird life in the Bass Harbor Marsh. This trail may be of particular interest to those looking for a short, easy ride. Also in the vicinity of Southwest Harbor, cyclists can ride the Seawall Loop. Beginning in Southwest Harbor, proceed south on Route 102 following the signs for the Swan's Island Ferry. Continue through the fishing village of Bass Harbor on Route 102, passing signs for the Bass Harbor Lighthouse, Ship Harbor, and Wonderland. Shortly thereafter, you will pass a natural seawall which rewards the cyclist with a superb ocean view. Three miles down the road, you will have completed the ten mile loop. For a change of pace, take the ferry from Bass Harbor and explore Swan's Island. A lighthouse, fine sand beach, and swimming quarry are key points to visit. A map of Swan's Island and a ferry schedule can be obtained from Southwest Cycle, the ferry terminal in Bass Harbor or the Chamber of Commerce. Bikes can also be taken aboard a boat to the Cranberry Islands. Though the islands are small, traffic is light making them a safe place for children and novice bikers. The carriage roads of Acadia are perhaps the most popular and picturesque for mountain biking. Located on the eastern side of MDI these hard-packed, auto-free roads provide nearly 50 miles of biking. Multi-speed, fat-tire or hybrid bikes are strongly suggested. Numbered sign posts serve to orient bikers, hikers, and equestrians. Cyclists should remember to ride on the right at all times, and to yield to those on foot, horseback or carriage. Ocean Drive – Park Loop Road, provides the most challenging and spectacular cycling on MDI. Beginning at the Park Visitor's Center in Hulls Cove, this route proceeds toward Sand Beach and Thunder Hole. Most of this circular ride is on a one-way, two-lane road, making it quite safe for biking. Cadillac Mountain should be attempted by the rider in fairly good physical condition. It is suggested that cyclists avoid pedaling up Cadillac during peak traffic hours. Bike rentals are available from: Acadia Bike, Bar Harbor 1 800 526 8615 Southwest Cycle Shop, Southwest Harbor 244 5856 |
P.O. Box 1143 Southwest Harbor, Maine 04679 1-800-423-9264 or 207-244-9264 Fax: 207-244-4185 E-mail: quietside@acadiachamber.com