top of page
Search

Mountain Biking in Maine: Ride Sugarloaf, Bethel, Bangor & Beyond

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • Aug 6
  • 5 min read


Mountain Biking in Maine: Ride Sugarloaf, Bethel, Bangor & Beyond

🚵‍♂️ Riding the Trails: The Wild Outdoors Your Ultimate Mountain Biking in Maine

Maine is a paradise for mountain bikers—whether you’re cruising a flowy singletrack, conquering a bermed corner, or enjoying family gravel rides. From Carrabassett Valley and Sugarloaf to Portland Trails and Camden, the Pine Tree State offers miles of varied riding experiences and is your ultimate mountain biking in Maine.


🌟 What Defines Mountain Biking in Maine?

No matter your age or experience level, Maine’s trails welcome everyone. Here’s a quick guide to common trail types:


  • Singletrack: Narrow, winding paths through woods or over natural features.

  • Doubletrack: Wider trails often created by fire or logging roads—ideal for easier riding.

  • Flowy / Bermed Trails: Smooth, curving with built-in speed banks—perfect for confident cruising.


🧰 Gear & Rider Tips

  • Protective Gear: Modern pads offer impact protection without compromising comfort.

  • Bike Style: Fat or plus-tire hardtails are great for Maine’s rooty terrain. E-bikes help level the playing field across age and fitness.

  • Lighting: Helmet or handlebar lights are essential for dusk or evening rides.

  • Maps & Tracking: Use Trailforks or kiosk maps—but always respect private land and posted trail rules.


🌄 🚲 Mountain Bike Rentals – Maine’s Best


🚲 Carrabassett Valley Bike

Allspeed Cyclery & Snow (Summer Satellite at Sugarloaf Outdoor Center)

Greater Portland & Southern Maine

Bethel / Rangeley Area

  • Barker Mountain Bikes — Rents full‑suspension, hardtail, and fat bikes in Bethel, ME (207‑824‑0100).

AJ’s Fat Bikes — Fat bike rentals in Rangeley, ME (207‑864‑2850). gorhambike.com


Kingfield & Bethel Area

  • Camden Snow Bowl & Goose River Trails: Intermediate terrain with lake views.

‘ A Trail’ in Rome: 6-mile climb with stunning water and mountain vistas.

Rentals:• Barker Mountain Bikes – Bethel, ME (207‑824‑0100)

• AJ’s Fat Bikes – Rangeley, ME (207‑864‑2850)


Midcoast / Central Maine

  • Camden Snow Bowl & Goose River Trails: Intermediate terrain with lake views.

‘A Trail’ in Rome: 6-mile climb with stunning water and mountain vistas.

Rentals:• Bath Cycle & Ski – Woolwich, ME (207‑442‑7002)

• Side Country Sports – Rockland & Camden, ME


Bangor / Northern Maine

  • Essex Woods (Bangor NEMBA): A mix of beginner to advanced trails with jumps, tabletops, and berms.

  • Additional Zones: Bangor City Forest, Newman Hill at Caribou Bog.

  • Info Resources: bit.ly/bangortrails and PR NEMBA group


✅ Why Ride in Maine?

  • Diverse Terrain: From pups on balance bikes to expert downhill routes, the trails adapt to all skills.

  • Community Support: Groups like NEMBA and local land trusts keep trails in top shape.

  • Scenic Variety: Ride riversides, mountain vistas, coastal trails, and forest paths.

  • Easy Rentals: Over 20 shops statewide offer full-suspension, fat bikes, hardtails, and e-bike options.


📋 Trail & Rental Resources

Region

Trail System

Bike Retailers / Rentals

Western Mountains

Carrabassett, Freeman Ridge

Allspeed, CVC Bike, Barker Bikes

Bethel Area

Mahoosuc Pathways (Bethel, Bacon Hill)

AJ’s Fat Bikes

Greater Portland

Cape Elizabeth, Gorham networks

Gorham Bike & Ski, Portland Gear Hub

Midcoast / Central

Camden Snow Bowl, A Trail (Rome)

Side Country Sports, Bath Cycle & Ski

Northern Maine

Essex Woods, Bangor City Trails

Bangor PR NEMBA local listings


🎯 Planning Tips for Your Ride

  • Choose trails that match your skill level—check maps before heading out.

  • Join local clubs (e.g., NEMBA chapters) for community rides and trail updates.

  • Wear appropriate gear and bring trail essentials like water, tools, and phone.

  • Respect private lands and seasonal access limits.


What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions

Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.

Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:

  • 🛶 Boating & paddling routes

  • 🎣 Fishing hotspots

  • 🏕️ Wilderness camping sites

  • 🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks

  • 🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure

Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:

  • Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake

  • 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7

  • Free WiFi & TV

  • Backup Generator

  • Easy driveway access for trailers & ATVs

  • Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails

  • Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports

Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in the river, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River









The Pine Tree State offers miles of varied riding experiences and is your ultimate mountain biking in Maine.

bottom of page