2 minute read
TRAVEL
Biking the Carriage Roads in Acadia National Park
By Julie Maddock
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THERE’S SOMETHING MAGICAL ABOUT MAINE—CRISP MORNINGS, WARM SUNNY AFTERNOONS, STUNNING FOLIAGE THAT THRILLS THE CAMERA-IN-HAND “LEAF PEEPERS”—AND ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO TAKE IT ALL IN IS BY BICYCLING THE CARRIAGE ROADS IN ACADIA NATIONAL PARK.
Built by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. and completed in 1940, the 45 miles of car-free connecting gravel roads allow you to meander your way through Acadia. Your pedaling will take you over stone bridges and along the shores of lakes and ponds. From gentle grades to difficult mountain slopes, there’s a route for riders of any level.
The roads are well-maintained and wide enough to accommodate not only bicyclists and hikers, but also carriages pulled by horses. But with so many miles of connecting roads, you’ll never feel crowded. A popular route is to start at Eagle Lake, ride to Jordan Pond, enjoy lunch at the Jordan Pond House and sample the fabulous popovers, then ride toward Day Mountain, Bubble Pond, and around the back side of Eagle Lake which brings you back to where you started. Or, using a free trail map, plan and discover your favorite ride. The possibilities are endless!
Acadia National Park is only 15 minutes by car from the Hancock County Bar Harbor Airport (BHB). For updated park information and to purchase a pass online, visit the official park website at https://www.nps.gov/acad/ planyourvisit/conditions.htm.
Need to rent a bike? Stop by Acadia Bike to get the gear and bike for your daytrip (48 Cottage St., Bar Harbor; 207-288-9605; starting at $29.00 per day).
WHERE TO STAY
Located 20 minutes from the airport, Bar Harbor is a famously picturesque town you will fall in love with. The Ivy Manor Inn, a historic English Tudor style hotel, is centrally located in Bar Harbor Village. Most suites have fireplaces, decks and parking is free. Walk to stores, galleries, restaurants and the beach. During peak season in the fall, rates start at $378.00 for a 2-night stay. (194 Main St., Bar Harbor; http://www.ivymanor.com/)
CARRAGE ROAD
STONE BRIDGES
EAGLE LAKE
BAR HARBOUR
Hancock parKGOLF COURSE
