WRITTEN BY AISLINN SARNACKI
The whir of tires turning and the click of shifting gears — these familiar sounds of biking, for many people, are as much a part of spring’s joyful song as the melody of returning songbirds.
When the snow melts from Maine’s landscape, mountain biking is among the top outdoor activities that ramp up. And it’s only becoming more popular.
“Mountain biking has been growing for years,” said Dan Bassett with the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, “and it could be for a bunch of reasons.”
Throughout the state, multiple trail systems specifically designed for mountain biking have been built in recent years. And there’s truth to the old adage “if you build it, they will come.”
Additionally, improvements in bike designs have made riding more accessible, lessening the learning curve, Bassett explained. Meanwhile, biking enthusiasts find it easy to share their love of the sport on social media, increasing public awareness (and FOMO).
“That brings me to the last reason I think it’s growing: because I just think it’s an amazing amount of fun,” Bassett said.
Trails to explore
A common misconception about mountain biking is that it always takes place on mountains — a daunting venue for beginners. Yet many mountain biking trails wind through relatively flat, forested areas. The point is to leave the pavement for dirt.
“You want to rip downhill runs at a lift access park? Awesome,” Bassett said. “You want to log miles and miles of twisty cross country single-track? Great! Just want to ride down the rail trail or fire road? That’s going to be a blast! There is no wrong way to do it, unless you are not having fun.”
Premiere mountain biking destinations can be found throughout Maine. In Carrabassett Valley, the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center features miles of trails for all skill levels, plus rental bikes. Mountain biking is also encouraged on the neighboring Maine Huts and Trails system.
Katahdin Area Trails, founded in 2014, has been supporting an effort to bring more mountain biking opportunities to the Katahdin Region. To date, the organization supports 24 miles of trails, with the Hammond Mountain trails at the New England Outdoor Center being the largest network. Other KAT-supported trails can be found in downtown Millinocket, Patten, and Mount Chase Lodge.
“At Hammond Ridge, the largest network in the area, riders will find a good mix of introductory through advanced intermediate singletrack,” said Mike Smith, executive director of Outdoor Sport Institute, which works hand-in-hand with KAT. “Trails range from buff and flowy to more aggressive and technical, making use of the area’s abundant rock. Elsewhere in the region, so far we’ve prioritized developing trails that are inviting to beginners and families, so that’s what riders can expect. For riders that are excited to step up the challenge, rest assured plans for more aggressive trail experiences across the region are in the works.”
Nearby, the Penobscot River Trails in Grindstone offer a scenic, riverside biking venue. Rental bikes are available here as well.
In 2022, Moosehead Outdoor Alliance spearheaded the construction of single-track mountain biking trails in Little Moose Public Land. The expanding system already features 7 miles of trails for beginner and intermediate riders.
“For the first time riding, try your local trails,” Bassett said. “If you do end up getting into mountain biking, it’s probably where you ride the most.”
Even Maine’s urban areas are abound with opportunities to bike. Blackstrap Hill Preserve in Falmouth is a favorite place to pedal near Portland. Bradbury Mountain State Park in Freeport is another southern Maine gem.
In Bangor, cyclists enjoy easy, smooth trails at the Roland F. Perry City Forest and slightly more challenging trails at the adjoining Walden-Parke Preserve. While next door in Orono, mountain bikers can explore 18 miles of trails at Caribou Bog Conservation Area, as well as a vast trail network surrounding the University of Maine.
To search for mountain biking trails in your area, Bassett suggests the popular mobile app and website Trailforks.
Tips for an easier ride
As with any sport, it’s important to take things slow with mountain biking. Otherwise, you might become frustrated or injured. Luckily, most trail networks feature easy trails, typically labeled in green on maps. You can also start out on wide, smooth trails like logging roads and rail trails — of which Maine has plenty.
In the springtime especially, trails can become wet and muddy.
“If you are making ruts in the trail, it’s probably too wet,” Bassett said. “Many places will close their trails when the conditions are too poor for riding to prevent damage. It’s important to check with your local land management agency and or mountain biking organization for the latest info.”
Taking things slow also means holding off on big gear purchases. Instead, consider renting a mountain bike and helmet for your first few outings. Local bike shops can be great resources, not only for quality rentals, but also instruction.
Often, bike shops offer group rides and workshops on simple but important skills like how to fix a flat tire.
“Most riders would benefit greatly from even a couple hours with a skilled instructor — especially early on before bad habits get reinforced,” said Smith. “With a few basics and a quality trail system that allows for progression, the learning curve can be quick. I’m always impressed by how much progress new riders make in one season.”
Organizations such as the New England Mountain Biking Association (NEMBA) and the Bicycle Coalition of Maine also offer events and instruction.
“Lots of these organizations host group rides regularly, so it can be a great opportunity to meet other riders, socialize, and learn new trails and systems that you haven’t been to before,” Bassett said. “Also, many of these organizations build and maintain the trails that you ride, so your dollars go directly to support that.”
NEMBA has eight chapters in Maine, each with their own projects and events. But beware, once you get involved, this outdoor activity may quickly become a lifelong passion.
“I love the feeling of going downhill, navigating challenging obstacles,” Bassett said. “I think it’s the closest you can feel to flying — and sometimes actually are! It’s an amazing way to explore the outdoors, and it can be very social. I’m a strong believer that the bicycle is the ultimate tool for discovery.”