Finding the “Best Bike Paths Near Me” is a common desire for cyclists of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned rider seeking challenging routes or a family looking for a safe and scenic trail for a leisurely afternoon, the ideal bike path is often just around the corner, waiting to be discovered. While “near me” is relative, sometimes the best cycling adventures are worth a little travel. If you’re looking to expand your horizons and explore some truly exceptional bike paths, consider venturing to Maine. This northeastern state boasts a fantastic network of trails that cater to various preferences, from coastal routes to riverside paths and forest trails. Maine’s commitment to multiuse trails makes it a prime destination for anyone searching for outstanding bike paths.
Let’s explore ten of the top trails in Maine, showcasing the variety and beauty that might just make one of these your new favorite “bike paths near me,” even if it requires a short trip to get there.
Back Cove Trail
Cyclists and walkers enjoy the Back Cove Trail in Maine, with the city skyline in the background.
The Back Cove Trail, located in the heart of Portland, Maine, offers a superb 3.6-mile loop that’s perfect for cyclists of all abilities. This accessible bike path encircles the city’s tidal basin, providing stunning views and a smooth, hard-packed gravel surface. Its central location within Portland’s trail system makes it easily reachable, feeling like one of the best “bike paths near me” for city dwellers and visitors alike. The Back Cove Trail is ideal for family bike rides, morning jogs, or even a rigorous evening workout. Its connections to other green spaces like the Eastern Promenade Trail and Bayside Trail allow for longer cycling adventures, enhancing its appeal as a central hub for bike paths near Portland.
Bangor and Aroostook Trail
A long gravel trail stretches through a forest in Maine, representing the Bangor and Aroostook Trail.
For those seeking a more extensive cycling experience, the Bangor and Aroostook Trail delivers with 63 miles of gravel paths winding through the northeastern wilderness of Maine. While perhaps not literally “near me” for everyone, this trail offers an immersive escape into Maine’s backcountry, making it a destination-worthy bike path. Following the route of the old Bangor and Aroostook Railroad, this trail forms a unique upside-down “Y” shape, inviting exploration of Maine’s remote landscapes. Cyclists on this route will encounter the region’s natural beauty and may share the trail with ATV riders who help maintain it. The Bangor and Aroostook Trail is perfect for adventurous cyclists looking to discover the wilder side of Maine on a long-distance bike path.
Belfast Rail Trail on the Passagassawaukeag
The Belfast Rail Trail in Maine crosses a river trestle, showcasing scenic views for cyclists.
Known locally as the “Passy Rail Trail,” the Belfast Rail Trail on the Passagassawaukeag offers a delightful 2.2-mile bike path experience. Opened in 2016, this trail has quickly become a favorite for those seeking scenic “bike paths near me” in the Belfast area. The flat, hard-packed granite surface ensures a smooth ride as it meanders along the Passagassawaukeag River. Cyclists can enjoy the tranquility of forested areas and stunning river views from the trestle bridge. Connecting downtown Belfast to the City Point Central Railroad Museum, this bike path blends natural beauty with historical interest, making it a culturally rich and enjoyable route for a shorter cycling trip.
Calais Waterfront Walkway
The Calais Waterfront Walkway in Maine runs alongside a river with benches to enjoy the view.
For cyclists interested in exploring a portion of the East Coast Greenway, the Calais Waterfront Walkway marks the beginning (or end) of this ambitious trail network in Maine. This well-maintained 1.5-mile gravel bike path runs along the St. Croix River, directly across from Canada, offering international views and a sense of place. Benches along the way invite riders to pause and appreciate the scenery, possibly spotting bald eagles. Despite its shorter length, the Calais Waterfront Walkway is rich in scenic beauty and historical significance, following the route of an early railway and providing a unique waterfront cycling experience. For those in or traveling to eastern Maine, this could be considered a noteworthy “bike path near me.”
Down East Sunrise Trail
A wide gravel trail, the Down East Sunrise Trail, cuts through a vibrant green Maine forest.
The Down East Sunrise Trail stands out as the longest off-road section of the East Coast Greenway, stretching an impressive 87 miles across Maine. For serious cyclists seeking long-distance “bike paths near me” (in a broader sense of regional exploration), this trail is a highlight. Following the corridor of the old Maine Central Railroad, it traverses diverse landscapes, from peaceful forests to wildlife-rich bogs and welcoming villages. While the gravel surface is well-maintained, cyclists should be mindful of weather conditions, particularly during mud season. This trail offers an unparalleled opportunity for extended bike trips through the heart of Down East Maine, showcasing the state’s vast and varied natural beauty.
Eastern Trail
Cyclists on the Eastern Trail in Maine pass through a marsh area under a bright sky.
The Eastern Trail, another key segment of Maine’s East Coast Greenway and a Rail Hall of Fame trail, is a beloved multiuse bike path. With a vision to connect communities along a 65-mile corridor from Kittery to South Portland, 22 miles are currently open for cyclists to enjoy. These off-road sections, including a scenic stretch through Scarborough Marsh, offer safe and enjoyable “bike paths near me” for residents and visitors of southern Maine. Near Scarborough Marsh, the Audubon Center provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and kayak rentals, adding to the trail’s appeal. The southern end of the trail, known as the South Portland Greenbelt Walkway, leads to Bug Light, a historic lighthouse, and passes the site of a former bicycle factory, blending history, nature, and accessible cycling.
Kennebec River Rail Trail
The Kennebec River Rail Trail in Maine runs alongside a river with fall foliage in the background.
Cyclists on the Kennebec River Rail Trail experience a journey alongside the historic Kennebec and Portland Railroad tracks. This pleasantly flat and winding 6.5-mile bike path offers frequent river views and access to the charming downtowns of Augusta, Hallowell, and Gardiner. For those in central Maine, this trail serves as a fantastic “bike path near me,” providing both recreational and scenic value. It is also a crucial component of the Maine Trails Coalition’s Maine Rail-Trail Plan, contributing to a vision of interconnected trails throughout the state. The Kennebec River Rail Trail is perfect for a relaxed bike ride with opportunities to explore riverside towns and enjoy Maine’s historical landscapes.
Mountain Division Trail
The Mountain Division Trail in Maine is shaded by trees, offering a pleasant cycling environment.
Envisioned as a 52-mile multiuse pathway from Portland to Fryeburg, the Mountain Division Trail currently offers two open sections totaling 10 miles, providing valuable “bike paths near me” for communities in western Maine. This trail is becoming a backbone for bicycle culture in the region, enjoyed by cyclists of all ages and abilities year-round. The tree-lined route offers a connection to nature and communities, embodying the spirit of rail-trails. Cyclists along the Mountain Division Trail can enjoy birdwatching, particularly for eastern bluebirds, enhancing the natural experience of this growing trail network.
Narrow Gauge Pathway
The Narrow Gauge Pathway in Maine follows a river with Sugarloaf Mountain in the distance.
Celebrating over two decades, the Narrow Gauge Pathway, also known as the Carrabassett River Trail, provides 5.4 miles of scenic bike path along the Carrabassett River. Located in the shadow of Sugarloaf Mountain, Maine’s iconic ski destination, this trail offers a gently sloping ride through a forested railroad cut. The well-maintained natural surface makes it accessible for many types of bikes, offering a picturesque way to explore Maine’s western terrain. For visitors to the Sugarloaf area, the Narrow Gauge Pathway is an excellent “bike path near me” for enjoying the region’s natural beauty beyond the ski slopes.
Saint John Valley Heritage Trail
The Saint John Valley Heritage Trail in Maine shows a wide path through fields under a cloudy sky.
A trip to northern Maine isn’t complete without experiencing the Saint John Valley Heritage Trail. This 17-mile natural-surface bike path stretches between Fort Kent and Saint Francis, skirting the Canadian border and offering a unique blend of history and scenery. Once a contested territory, this route now provides a peaceful cycling experience through forests and alongside rivers. Following the former Bangor and Aroostook Railroad line that transported timber and potatoes, the trail offers a glimpse into the region’s past. For those exploring northern Maine, the Saint John Valley Heritage Trail is a significant “bike path near me” for immersing in the area’s heritage and landscapes.
Honorable Mentions
Sipayik Trail
The Sipayik Trail holds the distinction of being the easternmost rail-trail in the United States. This paved 1.9-mile bike path traverses the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, offering stunning views of the Little River, Gleason Cove, and Western Passage waterfronts. Cyclists can enjoy coastal scenery and potentially spot seals, porpoises, and whales. Facing Canada’s Deer Island, the Sipayik Trail provides a culturally rich and scenic “bike path near me” in easternmost Maine.
Eastern Promenade Trail
For breathtaking ocean vistas, the Eastern Promenade Trail in Portland is unmatched. This 2.1-mile bike path stretches from Portland’s Old Port along the eastern edge of the peninsula, connecting to the Back Cove Trail. Offering panoramic views of islands and sailboats, the Eastern Prom is perfect for a scenic bike ride with a salty breeze. Part of the Casco Bay Trail vision, it also features the historic St. Lawrence and Atlantic Railroad swing bridge. Near the trail’s north end, the Maine Narrow Gauge Train Museum offers further exploration. For those in Portland, the Eastern Promenade Trail is an iconic “bike path near me” for coastal views and historical interest.
Maine’s diverse landscape and rich history are perfectly showcased through its extensive network of bike paths. Whether you are actively searching for “best bike paths near me” or planning a cycling trip, Maine’s trails offer something for everyone. From short, scenic routes to long-distance adventures, these top trails invite you to explore the natural beauty and charming communities of the Pine Tree State on two wheels.
