Top 10 cycling routes in Bangor

 

Nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes and a vibrant cycling community, Bangor is a haven for avid cyclists seeking thrilling adventures on two wheels. With its diverse terrain, picturesque coastal views, and charming countryside, this coastal city in Maine offers an array of captivating cycling routes.

Explore the outskirts and encounter trails leading to secluded lakes, tranquil woodlands, and captivating wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, Bangor’s top 15 cycling routes promise unforgettable experiences, a perfect blend of adventure and serenity.

So grab your helmet, hop on your bike, and explore the best cycling routes that Bangor offers. Let’s dive into this exhilarating cycling paradise that awaits enthusiasts seeking thrilling escapades amidst breathtaking surroundings. Read about what it is really like to cycle in Bangor.

Top 5 road cycling routes in Bangor

 

1. Coastal Loop:

This scenic route takes you along the breathtaking coastline of Bangor. Start at the waterfront and ride eastward, enjoying stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Pass through charming coastal towns, pedal along picturesque beaches, and soak in the refreshing sea breeze. The Coastal Loop offers a mix of flat stretches and rolling hills, making it suitable for cyclists of various skill levels.

 

2. Bangor-Brewer Loop:

Explore the neighboring town of Brewer with this popular loop. Begin at the Bangor Waterfront and cross the Penobscot River to enter Brewer. Ride through residential neighborhoods, enjoy the tree-lined streets, and discover local parks. This route offers a balance of flat sections and gentle inclines, providing an enjoyable ride for cyclists exploring the city’s surroundings.

 

3. Bangor-Orrington Route:

Venture further inland with this route that takes you through the picturesque town of Orrington. Starting in Bangor, head westward and pedal along scenic country roads. Marvel at the serene farmlands, rolling hills, and occasional glimpses of the Penobscot River. The Bangor-Orrington Route offers a mix of challenging climbs and tranquil stretches, catering to cyclists seeking a more adventurous ride.

 

4. Pushaw Lake Ride:

Experience the beauty of Pushaw Lake with this scenic road cycling route. Begin at Bangor’s outskirts and go to the lake, enjoying peaceful countryside roads along the journey. Ride alongside the sparkling waters of Pushaw Lake, with opportunities to take breaks at scenic viewpoints. The route offers a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines, providing a pleasant ride for cyclists of varying abilities.

 

5. Stillwater Park Loop:

Discover the natural beauty of Stillwater Park on this looped route. Start at the Bangor Waterfront and ride northeast towards Stillwater Avenue. Enter Stillwater Park and explore its extensive trail network, winding through lush forests and serene landscapes. This route offers a mix of paved and unpaved paths, providing a unique cycling experience amidst nature’s tranquility.

 

These five road cycling routes in Bangor offer a range of scenic beauty, varying difficulty levels, and opportunities to explore the city and its surroundings. Cyclists of all skill levels can enjoy these routes while immersing themselves in the charm and natural splendor of the area.

 

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Top 5 mountain biking bike routes in Bangor

 

Certainly! Here are five detailed descriptions of the top mountain biking routes in Bangor:

 

1. Bangor City Forest Trails:

Located in the heart of Bangor, the City Forest offers an extensive trail network that caters to mountain bikers of all skill levels.

The trails wind through wooded areas, open fields, and rocky terrain, providing a diverse and exciting riding experience.

For beginners, the Lower and Upper Loops offer relatively smooth trails with minimal technical features.

More experienced riders can explore the challenging singletrack trails, such as the Rock Garden Trail and the Quarry Trail, which feature rock gardens, roots, and steep sections. With varying lengths and difficulties, the Bangor City Forest Trails provide a thrilling mountain biking experience close to the city.

 

2. Essex Woods:

 

Situated just outside Bangor, Essex Woods is a hidden gem for mountain bikers. The trail system offers a combination of flowy singletrack, technical descents, and challenging climbs. Start with the beginner-friendly trails near the entrance, such as the Blueberry Hill Loop, to warm up.

As you gain confidence, tackle the intermediate trails like the Green Loop and the Red Loop, which feature more technical sections and berms.

The advanced riders can push their limits on the Black Diamond Trail, an exhilarating and demanding trail with steep descents and tight corners. Essex Woods is a must-visit destination for mountain biking enthusiasts looking for diverse courses and exciting challenges.

 

3. Bangor Bog Trail:

For riders seeking a unique and scenic mountain biking experience, the Bangor Bog Trail delivers. Located on the outskirts of Bangor, this trail system winds through a beautiful bog environment.

The route features narrow trails and boardwalks, offering a thrilling and immersive ride. Enjoy the serene surroundings as you navigate the bog, encountering diverse wildlife and vegetation—the route suits intermediate riders, with some technical sections and occasional roots and rocks.

The Bangor Bog Trail is a captivating mountain biking destination that allows you to connect with nature while enjoying an adventurous ride.

 

4. Hirundo Wildlife Refuge Trails:

Just a short drive from Bangor, the Hirundo Wildlife Refuge offers a network of trails perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts.

The courses range from smooth double track to narrow and winding singletrack, catering to riders of various skill levels.

Beginners can enjoy the scenic and relatively flat trail sections, while experienced riders can challenge themselves on the more technical trails with roots and small obstacles.

The Hirundo Wildlife Refuge Trails provide a peaceful and immersive mountain biking experience in a natural setting.

 

5. Orono Land Trust Trails:

Located in the neighboring town of Orono, the Orono Land Trust Trails offer a fantastic mountain biking experience for riders of all levels.

With over 15 miles of well-maintained trails, this trail system provides a mix of terrain, including flowing singletrack, challenging climbs, and exhilarating descents.

Beginners can start with the less technical routes like the Puddledock Loop and the Steam Mill Trail. At the same time, more experienced riders can tackle advanced trails like the Loop of Ledges and the Jo-Mary Trails, which feature rocky sections and technical descents.

The Orono Land Trust Trails offer a diverse and exciting mountain biking experience in a scenic and natural environment.

 

 

 

Top 5 cycling route resources in Bangor

 

1. Bangor Area Bicycle Club (BABC):

The Bangor Area Bicycle Club is a local organization promoting cycling in and around Bangor.

They offer many resources for cyclists, including maps, route suggestions, and group rides. The BABC website provides access to downloadable route maps categorized by difficulty level, distance, and terrain.

They also organize group rides where cyclists can join fellow enthusiasts to explore the area’s cycling routes.

The BABC is an excellent resource for residents and visitors looking to connect with the cycling community and discover the best trails in Bangor.

 

2. AllTrails:

 

AllTrails is a popular online platform and mobile app that provides a vast database of trails, including cycling routes, in various locations worldwide.

 

You can search for Bangor-specific cycling routes on AllTrails and find detailed descriptions, trail maps, elevation profiles, user reviews, and photos.

 

The platform allows you to filter routes based on difficulty, distance, and other preferences, making finding routes that suit your skill level and interests easier.

 

AllTrails offers a convenient and comprehensive resource for discovering and planning your cycling adventures in Bangor.

 

3. Strava:

 

Strava is a social fitness app that cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts use. It allows users to track their rides, share their activities, and explore popular routes in their area.

 

Strava’s Explore feature enables you to search for cycling routes in Bangor based on distance, elevation, and popularity.

 

You can also see the roads and segments recorded by other Strava users, giving you insights into local favorites and recommended rides.

 

Strava provides a community-driven platform for discovering and sharing cycling routes, making it a valuable resource for cyclists in Bangor.

 

4. Local Bike Shops:

 

Local bike shops in Bangor are excellent resources for information on cycling routes and trails in the area. Bike shop staff often know about the local cycling scene and can provide recommendations based on your skill level and preferences.

 

They may have maps or brochures showcasing popular routes and can offer firsthand advice on trail conditions and challenges.

 

Additionally, bike shops may host group rides or connect with local cycling clubs, allowing you to connect with other cyclists and discover new routes through their networks.

 

5. Bangor Parks and Recreation:

 

The Bangor Parks and Recreation Department manages and maintains various parks, trails, and recreational facilities in the city.

 

Their website or office can provide information about cycling routes and tracks within Bangor’s parks and green spaces. They may have maps, trail descriptions, and updates on any closures or construction affecting the pathways.

 

Contacting the Bangor Parks and Recreation Department can help you access valuable resources for exploring cycling routes within the city’s designated recreational areas.

These five cycling route resources in Bangor offer a range of options for discovering and planning your cycling adventures.

 

From local clubs and online platforms to bike shops and city resources, these sources provide valuable information, maps, and connections to help you navigate the best cycling routes in and around Bangor.

 

Final verdict

 

In conclusion, Bangor offers diverse cycling routes catering to road cycling and mountain biking enthusiasts.

Whether you prefer scenic coastal rides, challenging mountain trails, or serene park routes, there is something for everyone.

By utilizing resources such as the Bangor Area Bicycle Club, AllTrails, Strava, local bike shops, and the Bangor Parks and Recreation Department, cyclists can access maps, route suggestions, group rides, and valuable insights from the local community.

With its stunning natural landscapes and welcoming cycling culture, Bangor is ideal for riders seeking thrilling adventures and unforgettable experiences on two wheels.

 

 

 

 

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