Cycling Events and Tours in Acadia National Park: The Ultimate Guide for 2025

Welcome to the comprehensive guide to cycling events and tours in Acadia National Park! As someone who has spent countless hours exploring the iconic carriage roads and scenic routes of this Maine treasure, I'm excited to share everything you need to know about experiencing Acadia on two wheels. From organized events and guided tours to self-guided adventures and seasonal recommendations, this guide will help you plan the perfect cycling trip to one of America's most beloved national parks.

Introduction to Cycling in Acadia

Nestled along the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers some of the most spectacular cycling opportunities in the United States. As the only national park in Maine, Acadia boasts a unique blend of coastal scenery, forest landscapes, and mountain vistas that create an unparalleled backdrop for cycling enthusiasts of all levels.

What makes Acadia truly special for cyclists is its extensive network of carriage roads - 45 miles of crushed-stone pathways that wind through the heart of the park, offering car-free routes with breathtaking views. These historic roads, a gift from philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., were built between 1913 and 1940 and provide a cycling experience unlike any other national park in America.

Beyond the carriage roads, biking in Acadia National Park extends to the scenic 27-mile Park Loop Road and various gravel routes that showcase the park's diverse landscapes. Whether you're a casual rider looking for a leisurely pedal among stunning scenery or a seasoned cyclist seeking challenging terrain, Acadia offers routes suitable for every preference and ability level.

The park's cycling season typically runs from late spring through mid-fall, with each season offering its own distinct charm - from the vibrant wildflowers of spring to the spectacular foliage colors of autumn. Summer brings warmer temperatures ideal for longer rides, while early fall offers cooler conditions and fewer crowds for a more serene experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything from organized tours and annual cycling events to self-guided adventures, essential gear recommendations, and insider tips to help you make the most of your cycling experience in Acadia National Park.

The Historic Carriage Roads: Acadia's Cycling Paradise

The heart of cycling in Acadia National Park lies in its renowned carriage road system. These 45 miles of crushed-stone pathways offer a cycling experience that combines historical significance with natural beauty. As I rode beneath the stone bridges and alongside pristine lakes, I couldn't help but appreciate John D. Rockefeller Jr.'s vision in creating this cycling paradise.

History of the Carriage Roads

The carriage roads were built between 1913 and 1940, funded primarily by John D. Rockefeller Jr. His vision was to create motor-free byways where visitors could travel by horse and carriage into the heart of Mount Desert Island, enjoying the natural beauty without the intrusion of automobiles. This foresight has created what is now a cyclist's dream – miles of scenic, car-free paths winding through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Northeast.

What makes these roads engineering marvels is how they were designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment. Rather than flattening hillsides, Rockefeller had breast walls and retaining walls constructed to preserve the contours of the land and save trees. The roads follow the natural landscape, offering spectacular views while maintaining grades that aren't too steep for comfortable cycling.

The 17 stone-faced bridges along the carriage roads are architectural highlights, each uniquely designed to complement its specific location. These bridges span streams, waterfalls, roads, and cliffside, adding to the scenic beauty of your cycling journey.

Popular Carriage Road Routes for Cyclists

During my many visits to Acadia, I've explored numerous carriage road routes, and these are some of the most rewarding cycling experiences the park has to offer:

• Eagle Lake Loop (6 miles): One of the most popular routes, offering stunning views of Eagle Lake and the surrounding mountains. The east side of the lake provides particularly spectacular vistas that make for perfect photo opportunities.
• Witch Hole Pond Loop (4.7 miles): A shorter route ideal for families or those with limited time. This northern loop passes the serene Witch Hole Pond and connects to the Hulls Cove Visitor Center.
• Jordan Pond Loop (8.6 miles): This scenic route passes Jordan Pond and Bubble Pond with options to park your bike and hike to attractions like the Bubbles. The famous Jordan Pond House offers a perfect refreshment stop with their renowned popovers.
• Around the Mountain Loop (11.3 miles): For more experienced cyclists, this challenging route offers spectacular views looking down at Eagle Lake near the Chasm Brook Bridge. With about 1,000 feet of elevation gain, it's more demanding but rewards riders with some of the park's most breathtaking vistas.
• Tri Lakes Loop (10.6 miles): This route circles Eagle Lake, Jordan Pond, and Bubble Pond, offering varied scenery and multiple lake views. It's considered by many to be the quintessential carriage road experience.

For those looking to maximize their experience, I recommend a route that combines elements of several loops. Starting from Bar Harbor, enter at Duck Brook Bridge, then head south on the Witch Hole Pond Loop towards Eagle Lake. Follow the east side of Eagle Lake for the best views, then connect to the Jordan Pond Loop, visiting both Bubble Pond and Jordan Pond. From there, tackle the Around the Mountain Loop for the most spectacular vistas before returning via the west side of Eagle Lake.

For family-friendly options, the Witch Hole Pond Loop and portions of the Eagle Lake Loop offer gentler terrain while still providing beautiful scenery.

Carriage Road Etiquette and Safety

When cycling the carriage roads, remember that they're shared pathways with pedestrians and, occasionally, horseback riders. The National Park Service outlines clear guidelines for safe and respectful use:

• Cyclists yield to all other users, and everyone yields to horses
• Maintain reasonable speeds, especially on descents and around blind corners
• Announce yourself when passing others
• Stay to the right side of the road
• Move to the side when stopped
• All cyclists should wear helmets
• Ride in single file, not abreast
• Class 1 e-bikes are permitted, but cannot exceed 20 mph

During my rides, I've found that bringing plenty of water (at least 20 ounces per hour of riding) is essential, especially during summer months. The crushed stone surface can be loose in places, so be prepared for controlled stops to avoid skidding.

Maps of the carriage roads are available at the visitor centers or can be downloaded from the National Park Service website. The intersections are numbered, making navigation straightforward if you have a map on hand.

Guided Cycling Tours in Acadia

For those who prefer a structured experience with expert guidance, numerous operators offer guided cycling tours in Acadia National Park. These tours range from half-day excursions to week-long adventures, catering to various interests, fitness levels, and budgets.

Tour Operators and Their Offerings

Based on my research and personal experiences, here are some of the top cycling tour operators in Acadia:

1. VBT Bicycling Vacations - Offers a comprehensive 5-day "Maine: Acadia National Park" guided bike tour that showcases the best of the carriage roads and surrounding areas. Their tour includes:
   • Professional local guides familiar with the area's history and ecology
   • Accommodations at an oceanfront property along Frenchman Bay
   • A ferry ride across Frenchman Bay to explore the Schoodic Peninsula
   • A traditional Maine lobster bake
   • High-quality bikes (including e-bikes for an additional fee)
   What I appreciate about VBT is their attention to detail and how they incorporate cultural experiences alongside cycling. Their tours start at around $3,295 per person and include most meals and accommodations.
2. Backroads - Offers a 5-day "Maine & Acadia National Park Bike Tour" that extends beyond Acadia to include cycling along scenic Penobscot Bay. Their tour features:
   • Multiple daily route options catering to different ability levels
   • Luxury accommodations in boutique hotels
   • A windjammer sailing experience along the rocky coastline
   • Visits to quaint Maine villages and towns like Camden
   Backroads is known for their premium experience, with prices starting around $3,999 per person. Their tours attract cyclists looking for a blend of active adventure and upscale accommodations.
3. Adventure Cycling Association - Offers a more affordable "Acadia and Mt. Desert Island Long Weekend Inn-to-Inn" tour that focuses primarily on cycling:
   • A 4-day itinerary covering the Park Loop Road and carriage roads
   • Overnight stays in Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor
   • An option to climb Cadillac Mountain by bike
   • A more independent experience with less structured activities
   This tour is ideal for those who want to focus on the cycling aspects without as many additional activities or luxury accommodations.
4. Summer Feet Cycling - Offers a 3-day "Exploring Acadia" tour that provides an excellent introduction to the park:
   • Rides on both the carriage roads and the Schoodic Peninsula
   • A ferry ride across Frenchman Bay
   • Local Maine cuisine, including fresh lobster
   • Accommodations at The Inn on Mt Desert in Bar Harbor
   At $1,795 per person, this tour offers good value for those seeking a shorter but comprehensive Acadia cycling experience.
5. Acadia Bike/Coastal Kayaking Tours - Offers several shorter guided tour options perfect for day trippers:
   • Ranger-led bike tours (2.5 hours, $72 per person) that include informative commentary about the park's history and ecology
   • Private tours tailored to your group's interests and abilities
   • E-bike tours covering 18-20 miles of carriage roads (3.5 hours, $139 per person)
   These tours are ideal for those who want expert guidance without committing to a multi-day package.

Ranger-Led Cycling Programs

One of the most affordable and educational options for exploring Acadia by bike is the ranger-led carriage road bike tour offered through Acadia Bike in partnership with the National Park Service. During my last visit, I participated in one of these tours and found it to be an excellent value.

These 2.5-hour tours operate primarily in summer and early fall:

• July & August: Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 11:00 A.M.
• June 17th-30th, September 1st-October 15th: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 8:30 to 11:00 A.M

The tour covers about 6 miles of carriage roads with frequent stops where park rangers share fascinating insights about the park's history, ecology, and the construction of the carriage roads. At $72 per person (including bike rental for the entire day), it's an excellent way to both learn about the park and get oriented to the carriage road system.

Tours begin at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center, and participants have the option to return their bikes immediately after the tour or keep them until 5:00 P.M. for further exploration on their own. This flexibility makes it perfect for those who want to combine guided and self-guided experiences in a single day.

Note that these tours are extremely popular, especially in peak season, so advance reservations are strongly recommended. All participants must be at least 8 years old and able to confidently ride a bike.

My Experience with Guided Tours

Having participated in both a VBT multi-day tour and a ranger-led tour in Acadia, I can offer some perspective on the different experiences. The VBT tour provided a comprehensive immersion into both the park and the broader coastal Maine region. Our guides were knowledgeable locals who shared fascinating stories about the area's history, pointed out wildlife I might have missed on my own, and handled all the logistics seamlessly.

The ranger-led tour, while much shorter, offered exceptional educational value. The rangers' knowledge of the ecological systems and historical context of the carriage roads added dimensions to my understanding that enhanced subsequent self-guided rides.

For first-time visitors to Acadia, I recommend starting with either a half-day guided tour or a ranger-led program to get oriented, followed by independent exploration. For those with more time, the multi-day guided tours offer a deeper connection to the region and access to experiences and locations that might be challenging to arrange independently.

Annual Cycling Events in and Around Acadia

Beyond day-to-day cycling, Acadia National Park and its surrounding communities host several cycling events throughout the year. These organized rides offer unique opportunities to experience the park's beauty alongside fellow cycling enthusiasts.

The Cadillac Challenge Century

The crown jewel of cycling events in Acadia is the Cadillac Challenge Century, now in its 34th year. This annual ride takes cyclists on beautiful routes throughout Mount Desert Island, culminating with a challenging 3.3-mile climb up Cadillac Mountain with a 6% average grade.

What makes this event special is its community spirit. Unlike many organized rides, the Cadillac Challenge is not a race but truly a ride, with no chip timing or official results. Started by Anthony Mourkas and his family and now organized by Dean Reed, the event maintains a grassroots feel despite its growing popularity.

The ride typically offers multiple distance options to accommodate different fitness levels, though all routes include the signature climb up Cadillac Mountain. The event usually takes place in early fall when the weather is cooler and fall foliage begins to appear, making for spectacular views from the summit.

For those looking to challenge themselves while experiencing one of the most scenic rides in New England, the Cadillac Challenge should be on your cycling bucket list. Registration information can be found on their official website or Facebook page.

Spring Ride: Bike the Park Loop Road

One of Acadia's special seasonal events occurs each spring before the Park Loop Road fully opens to vehicle traffic. From December 1 through April 14 each year (weather permitting), portions of the Park Loop Road remain closed to vehicles but open to cyclists, providing a rare opportunity to experience this scenic route without car traffic.

While not an organized event with registration, this seasonal window attracts many cyclists who appreciate the chance to ride the paved loop road without competing with vehicles. It's particularly popular with local cyclists and early-season visitors.

During this period, you can freely pedal past iconic locations like Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, and Jordan Pond on smooth pavement with only fellow cyclists, runners, and walkers sharing the road. It's important to note that two sections of the Park Loop Road do remain open to vehicles year-round:

• From Sand Beach entrance station to Fabbri picnic area
• Where the Park Loop Road intersects with Jordan Pond Road (near Wildwood Stables)

I've experienced this spring riding opportunity twice, and it offers a completely different perspective of the park compared to summer rides. The lack of vehicle traffic creates a serene atmosphere, and the early spring light casts beautiful shadows across the landscape. While temperatures can be cooler, proper layering makes for comfortable riding conditions.

Climate Ride Burlington to Bar Harbor

For cyclists looking for a more extended challenge, the Climate Ride Burlington to Bar Harbor offers an epic six-day journey that concludes in Acadia National Park. This charitable ride connects Burlington, Vermont to Bar Harbor, Maine, traversing through the White Mountains and along Maine's stunning coastline before finishing in Acadia.

Beyond the physical challenge and beautiful scenery, the Climate Ride raises awareness and funds for environmental causes. Participants fundraise a minimum amount to support organizations working on climate change, sustainability, and active transportation initiatives.

The final day of the ride typically includes exploring Acadia's carriage roads and Park Loop Road, providing a triumphant conclusion to an adventure spanning three New England states. For cyclists who enjoy multi-day challenges with a purpose, this ride offers both personal accomplishment and positive community impact.

Having spoken with several participants during my visits to Acadia, I've heard nothing but praise for the organization, route planning, and overall experience of this event. The camaraderie developed over the six-day journey creates lasting friendships among riders who share a passion for cycling and environmental stewardship.

Planning Your Cycling Trip to Acadia

When to Visit

The ideal time for cycling in Acadia depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and seasonal attractions. Based on my multiple visits throughout the seasons, here's what you can expect:

• Late Spring (May to early June): A wonderful time for cycling with fewer crowds and blooming wildflowers. The carriage roads may be muddy in early May after the spring thaw, so check conditions. The special vehicle-free period on the Park Loop Road typically extends through mid-April, offering a unique cycling experience.
• Summer (late June to August): The most popular season with warm temperatures (typically 70s-80s°F) and all facilities operating. Expect more crowded conditions, especially on weekends and near popular attractions. Early morning rides are recommended to avoid peak visitation hours.
• Fall (September to mid-October): My personal favorite time to cycle in Acadia. The weather remains pleasant (60s-70s°F), crowds thin after Labor Day, and the spectacular fall foliage creates a magical backdrop for cycling. Peak foliage typically occurs in mid-October, but colors begin changing in late September. The crisp air makes for perfect cycling conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities increase.
• Winter: The carriage roads are typically groomed for cross-country skiing rather than cycling during winter months.

For the optimal blend of good weather, reasonable crowds, and beautiful scenery, I recommend planning your cycling trip for early September or early October. The days are still reasonably long, temperatures are comfortable for active pursuits, and you'll encounter fewer visitors than during the peak summer season.

Bike Rental Options

If you're not bringing your own bike, Acadia offers several excellent rental options in and around Bar Harbor:

• Acadia Bike/Coastal Kayaking Tours: Located at 48 Cottage Street in Bar Harbor, they offer conventional bikes, hybrid bikes, and e-bikes with options for half-day, full-day, or multi-day rentals. Their fleet is well-maintained, and staff are knowledgeable about the best routes for your ability level.
• Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop: Located on Main Street in Bar Harbor, they offer high-quality rental bikes including road bikes, hybrids, mountain bikes, and e-bikes. They provide maps and route recommendations tailored to your interests and abilities.
• Island Time eBike Rentals: Specializing in e-bikes, they will deliver bikes directly to the Hulls Cove Visitor Center or other locations for convenience.

During my visits, I've rented from both Acadia Bike and Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop with positive experiences at both. For those new to the area or less confident in their cycling abilities, I highly recommend considering an e-bike rental. While more expensive (typically about twice the cost of a standard bike rental), e-bikes make the hillier sections of the carriage roads much more accessible and allow you to cover more ground with less fatigue.

Most rental shops provide helmets, locks, water bottle cages, and basic repair kits with their rentals. Some also offer child trailers, tag-along bikes for kids, and child seats for an additional fee. Advance reservations are strongly recommended during the peak summer season and fall foliage periods.

Accommodations for Cyclists

Acadia offers a range of cyclist-friendly accommodations:

• Bar Harbor: The most convenient base for cycling adventures, with easy access to both the carriage roads and many rental shops. Look for properties that offer secure bike storage or allow bikes in rooms. The Bar Harbor Inn and the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel have been particularly accommodating to cyclists in my experience.
• Blackwoods and Seawall Campgrounds: For those who prefer camping, these National Park Service campgrounds provide affordable options. Blackwoods has better access to the carriage roads via the Park Loop Road.
• Southwest Harbor and Northeast Harbor: Quieter alternatives to Bar Harbor, these towns offer access to the southern carriage roads but are further from rental shops and the northern sections of the park.

For the optimal cycling experience, I recommend staying in downtown Bar Harbor, which allows you to begin your rides directly from your accommodation without needing to drive to a trailhead. Many of the inns and B&Bs in town are housed in historic buildings with character and charm, adding to the overall experience of your visit.

My Personal Experience: A 3-Day Cycling Itinerary

During my most recent trip to Acadia in October, I created what I consider to be the perfect 3-day cycling itinerary that balances different experiences within the park:

Day 1: Carriage Road Exploration
I started with an early morning ranger-led tour to get oriented to the carriage road system and learn about the park's history. After the tour concluded, I kept my rental bike and spent the afternoon exploring the Jordan Pond Loop and portions of the Eagle Lake Loop at my own pace. Stopping at Jordan Pond House for their famous popovers provided a perfect mid-ride break. Total distance: about 15 miles.

Day 2: Around the Mountain Challenge
For my second day, I rented an e-bike to tackle the more challenging Around the Mountain Loop. The electric assist made the significant elevation gain manageable while still providing a good workout. The views from this route were absolutely spectacular, particularly the vistas overlooking Eagle Lake. I combined this with sections of the Witch Hole Pond Loop for a total of about 20 miles, with plenty of stops for photography.

Day 3: Park Loop Road and Schoodic Peninsula
On my final day, I split my riding between two distinct experiences. In the early morning, I rode the Park Loop Road from Sand Beach to Otter Cliffs, enjoying the coastal scenery without heavy traffic. In the afternoon, I took advantage of the ferry service to the Schoodic Peninsula and explored its quieter, less-visited 8-mile loop road by bike. The contrast between the main park and the Schoodic section provided a wonderful finale to my cycling adventure.

This itinerary worked perfectly for me as a reasonably fit recreational cyclist. It combined different terrains, scenery, and challenges while allowing time for other activities like short hikes and photography breaks.

Essential Gear for Cycling in Acadia

Having the right gear can significantly enhance your cycling experience in Acadia. Based on my multiple visits and various weather conditions, here are my recommendations for essential cycling gear:

Cycling Apparel

Comfort is key when cycling Acadia's varied terrain. Here are some essential clothing items that have served me well:

Safety Equipment

Safety should always be a priority, especially when cycling in unfamiliar terrain:

Accessories and Tools

These additional items will enhance your comfort and preparedness:

• Hydration System: The park service recommends carrying at least 20 ounces of water per hour of riding. An insulated water bottle or hydration pack is essential, especially on warmer days. The Acadia National Park Insulated Tumbler fits standard bike bottle cages and keeps water cool for hours.
• Backpack or Handlebar Bag: Carry essentials like snacks, a map, sunscreen, and personal items. A small backpack with a waist strap prevents it from swinging while riding. For shorter rides, a handlebar bag or saddle bag may be sufficient.
• Repair Kit: If venturing far from rental shops, basic repair tools (tire levers, spare tube, mini-pump, and multi-tool) can save a long walk back. Most rental shops include these with their bikes.
• Navigation Tools: While the carriage roads have numbered intersections that correspond to maps, having a phone mount for digital navigation or a printed map in a waterproof case is helpful. Cell service can be spotty in parts of the park, so download offline maps if using digital navigation.

My Personal Gear Recommendations

After several cycling trips to Acadia in different seasons, I've refined my packing list to these essentials:

• Padded cycling shorts for comfort on longer rides
• Moisture-wicking cycling jersey with back pockets for easy access to snacks
• Lightweight, packable rain jacket (even on sunny days)
• Padded cycling gloves to reduce hand fatigue
• Two insulated water bottles (at least 20oz each)
• Compact camera or smartphone with good camera capabilities
• Printed map of the carriage roads (even with digital options, I like having a physical backup)
• Small first aid kit with basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers
• Portable battery pack for charging phone or GPS
• Sunglasses with interchangeable lenses for varying light conditions

For those traveling to Acadia specifically for cycling, consider bringing your own saddle if you have one that's particularly comfortable for you. Most rental shops can easily swap it onto your rental bike, making longer rides much more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Cycling in Acadia National Park offers one of the most rewarding ways to experience this coastal Maine treasure. The unique carriage road system provides an unparalleled cycling environment where you can immerse yourself in natural beauty without the intrusion of motor vehicles. Whether you're participating in an organized event like the Cadillac Challenge Century, joining a guided tour led by local experts, or creating your own self-guided adventure, Acadia's diverse cycling opportunities cater to riders of all abilities and interests.

What makes cycling in Acadia truly special is how it connects you with the landscape in an intimate way. As you pedal beneath stone bridges, alongside pristine lakes, and through forests of spruce, fir, and birch, you experience the park at a perfect pace – fast enough to cover significant ground but slow enough to notice details that might be missed from a car window. The rhythm of cycling becomes a meditation of sorts, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural symphony of ocean waves, forest sounds, and the subtle crunch of gravel beneath your tires.

Through my own cycling adventures in Acadia, I've discovered hidden perspectives, encountered wildlife, and connected with fellow cyclists from around the world, all sharing in the joy of exploring this remarkable place on two wheels. Whether you're climbing the challenging grades to mountain vistas or coasting alongside reflective ponds, cycling in Acadia creates memories that endure long after your visit.

As you plan your own cycling journey to Acadia, remember that flexibility and preparedness enhance the experience. The park's weather can change quickly, popular routes may be busier at certain times, and your own energy levels might dictate a change in plans. Embrace these variables as part of the adventure, always keeping safety and respect for other park visitors as priorities.

Acadia National Park's combination of natural beauty, thoughtfully designed cycling infrastructure, and rich cultural history makes it a premier cycling destination in the United States. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for a deeper exploration, the park's carriage roads, organized events, and guided tours provide endless possibilities for discovery on two wheels. Happy cycling in Acadia!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of bike is best for Acadia's carriage roads?

Hybrid bikes are ideal for Acadia's carriage roads as they handle the crushed stone surface well while remaining efficient. Mountain bikes work excellently but may feel slower on longer rides. Road bikes with narrow tires are not recommended as they can be unstable on the gravel surface. E-bikes (Class 1) are permitted and make hills more manageable for those with less cycling experience or physical limitations. When renting, most local outfitters provide bikes specifically selected for the carriage roads' conditions.

Are e-bikes allowed on Acadia's carriage roads?

Yes, Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist bikes that provide assistance only when pedaling and stop assisting at 20 mph) are permitted on Acadia's carriage roads. Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on the carriage roads. All e-bikes must maintain speeds under 20 mph. E-bikes have become increasingly popular rentals as they allow visitors of varying fitness levels to enjoy longer routes and tackle hillier sections with less fatigue. Most rental shops in Bar Harbor offer e-bike options, though they typically cost about twice as much as conventional bike rentals.

What is the best time of year to go cycling in Acadia?

Early fall (September to mid-October) offers the ideal combination of comfortable temperatures, reduced crowds, and spectacular fall foliage for cycling in Acadia. Late spring (late May to early June) is also excellent with blooming wildflowers and fewer visitors. Summer provides reliable weather but comes with heavier traffic on both carriage roads and park roads. Winter is generally not suitable for cycling as carriage roads are groomed for cross-country skiing. Each season has its own appeal, but for the optimal balance of good weather and manageable visitor numbers, the weeks just after Labor Day are hard to beat.

Do I need a park pass to cycle in Acadia?

Yes, all visitors to Acadia National Park, including cyclists, must have a valid park entrance pass. If you're cycling in without a vehicle, you can purchase an individual pass ($15 valid for 7 days) rather than the more expensive vehicle pass. Annual passes are also available for frequent visitors. When cycling on the carriage roads or park roads, you should either have your pass with you or be able to show proof that your vehicle (parked elsewhere) has a valid pass displayed. The fees help maintain the carriage roads and other park infrastructure, ensuring these special places remain accessible for future generations.

Are there bike-friendly accommodations near Acadia?

Bar Harbor offers numerous bike-friendly accommodations, from hotels to B&Bs that provide secure bike storage or allow bikes in rooms. The Atlantic Oceanside Hotel and Bar Harbor Inn both cater well to cyclists with convenient locations for accessing the carriage roads. For budget travelers, Blackwoods Campground within the park offers reasonably priced camping with relatively easy cycling access to the carriage roads. Many accommodations in Bar Harbor are within walking distance of bike rental shops, making it convenient to pick up rentals and begin your cycling adventure directly from town without needing a car.

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