The Ultimate Guide to Acadia National Park Bike Rental

Top Bike Rental Options in Bar Harbor

Finding the perfect Acadia National Park bike rental is the first step to an unforgettable adventure on the carriage roads. Bar Harbor and the surrounding areas offer numerous rental shops with various bike types, price points, and rental durations. After exploring nearly all the options over my many visits, I've compiled detailed information on the best rental services near Acadia.

Acadia Bike Rentals

Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop

Acadia Ebike Adventure

Island Bike Rental

Located at 102 Main Street in Northeast Harbor, Island Bike Rental provides a variety of options including e-bikes, traditional bikes, and cruisers. They're an excellent choice for those staying in the quieter eastern side of Mount Desert Island. Their family-friendly offerings include children's bikes, tag-alongs, buggies, and baby seats. With their location away from the main tourist hub of Bar Harbor, you might find a more relaxed rental experience, especially during peak season.

When choosing an Acadia National Park bike rental company, consider not just the price but also the location relative to your accommodations, the quality of bikes offered, and any additional services like guided tours or delivery options. During peak summer season (July-August), I strongly recommend making reservations in advance as the most popular rental shops book up quickly.

The Historic Carriage Roads of Acadia

The 45 miles of carriage roads in Acadia National Park are a remarkable gift from philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. and his family. Constructed between 1913 and 1940, these rustic roads were designed for horse-drawn carriages, allowing visitors to travel on motor-free byways into the heart of Mount Desert Island. Today, they provide cyclists with one of the most picturesque and well-maintained riding networks in any national park.

A cyclist enjoying Acadia's historic carriage roads (Credit: NPS)

Engineering Marvels

What makes these roads truly special is their engineering. Rather than flattening hillsides, Rockefeller built breast walls and retaining walls to preserve the natural landscape. The roads were constructed using methods that required significant hand labor, creating what are now considered the best examples of broken-stone roads in America. Each road has three layers of rock, wide ditches, and a substantial crown to ensure proper drainage in Maine's wet climate.

Perhaps the most striking features of the carriage roads are the 16 stone-faced bridges, each unique in design, spanning streams, waterfalls, roads, and cliffsides. These bridges are made with reinforced concrete but faced with native stone, giving them a natural appearance that blends perfectly with the landscape. As you cycle through the park, you'll encounter these architectural marvels, each worth stopping to appreciate.

Carriage Road Rules for Cyclists

When planning your Acadia National Park bike rental adventure, it's essential to understand the rules governing the carriage roads. These regulations ensure everyone's safety and preserve the roads for future generations:

• Yield Properly: Cyclists must yield to all users on the carriage roads. Everyone yields to horses, which can be startled by sudden movements.
• Speed Limit: No bicycle may exceed 20 mph on the carriage roads. Speeding is dangerous on the crushed rock surface.
• E-Bike Rules: Only Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist without throttle, max 20 mph) are permitted on carriage roads. Class 2 and 3 e-bikes are prohibited.
• Stay Right: Always ride on the right side and pass on the left after giving a clear warning.
• Trail Restrictions: Bicycling is not permitted on hiking trails or privately owned carriage roads.
• Group Formation: Bike single file, not abreast, to allow safe passing.

During my many rides through Acadia, I've noticed that the most common issue is cyclists not yielding properly to pedestrians and horses. Remember that the carriage roads are multi-use trails, and proper etiquette ensures everyone has an enjoyable experience. When approaching pedestrians, slow down and announce yourself with a friendly "on your left" before passing.

Seasonal Considerations

Before finalizing your Acadia National Park bike rental plans, check the current status of the carriage roads. In the spring (typically March and April), the roads often close to all traffic during mud season to prevent damage. The National Park Service posts updates about closures at go.nps.gov/AcadiaAlerts.

The carriage roads are at their busiest from late June through August, with mid-day being the peak time for visitors. For a more peaceful experience, consider riding early in the morning (before 10 AM) or later in the afternoon (after 4 PM). Fall offers stunning foliage views along the carriage roads, with peak colors typically occurring in mid-October, though this varies year to year.

Best Biking Trails & Routes

With 45 miles of carriage roads throughout Acadia National Park, choosing the best routes can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Based on my extensive riding experience and feedback from countless visitors who've rented bikes in the park, I've compiled a list of the most scenic and enjoyable routes that showcase the best of Acadia's landscape.

The carriage roads wind through Acadia's diverse landscapes (Credit: TrailLink)

Witch Hole Pond Loop

Distance: Approximately 3.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Starting Point: Hulls Cove Visitor Center

This is my favorite route for beginners or those short on time. The loop circles the picturesque Witch Hole Pond and offers beautiful water views. The terrain is relatively flat with a few gentle hills, making it accessible for all skill levels. In early morning, the pond often has mist rising from its surface, creating a magical atmosphere that explains the pond's name.

Eagle Lake Loop

Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Eagle Lake Carriage Road Parking Area (Route 233)

This popular loop circles Eagle Lake, the largest lake on Mount Desert Island. The route offers stunning views of the lake backed by the hills of Acadia. You'll enjoy sections through dense forests that open up to spectacular lake vistas. There are moderate hills on the eastern side of the lake, but nothing too challenging. This route is especially beautiful in fall when the surrounding hardwood forests display vibrant foliage colors. The parking area can fill up by mid-morning during peak season, so arrive early.

Jordan Pond Loop

Distance: Approximately 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Jordan Pond House

This scenic loop circles Jordan Pond with breathtaking views of the Bubble Mountains. The carriage road is nearly level the entire way, making it perfect for families and casual cyclists. At the south end of the pond, you'll find one of the most iconic views in Acadia—the perfect place for photos. The route's proximity to Jordan Pond House means you can enjoy their famous popovers and tea after your ride (reservation recommended during peak season). This is one of the most popular Acadia National Park bike rental routes, so expect to share the trail with many other visitors during summer days.

Around the Mountain Loop

Distance: Approximately 11 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Starting Point: Eagle Lake Carriage Road Parking Area (Route 233)

For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, this loop circles Sargent Mountain, Parkman Mountain, and Penobscot Mountain. It's the most challenging carriage road route in terms of hills but rewards riders with spectacular views of Eagle Lake, Jordan Pond, and the surrounding mountains. The western portion features some of the steepest grades on any carriage road, so come prepared with water and snacks. I recommend riding this loop counter-clockwise to tackle the steepest climbs early when your legs are fresh.

Aunt Betty Pond Loop

Distance: Approximately 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Parkman Mountain Parking Area

This lesser-known loop offers a more secluded experience away from the busier sections of the park. The route passes through dense forests and alongside Aunt Betty Pond, a small, peaceful body of water surrounded by trees. What I love about this route is the tranquility—it's not uncommon to see wildlife like deer, foxes, and various bird species. The terrain includes some moderate hills but nothing too strenuous, making it suitable for intermediate riders.

Amphitheater Loop

Distance: Approximately 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Brown Mountain Gatehouse

This scenic loop passes through a natural amphitheater-like valley between Pemetic Mountain and The Triad. The highlight is crossing the beautiful Amphitheater Bridge, one of Rockefeller's most impressive stone bridges. The route offers a diverse landscape of forests, streams, and open areas with mountain views. There are several moderate inclines, but the spectacular scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

When planning your route with your Acadia National Park bike rental, consider your fitness level, available time, and the weather conditions. All rental shops provide maps of the carriage roads, and staff can suggest routes based on your preferences. I always recommend taking a photo of the map on your phone as a backup, even though the numbered intersection posts throughout the carriage roads make navigation relatively straightforward.

Essential Gear & Preparations

Proper preparation can make the difference between a challenging ordeal and an unforgettable adventure when biking in Acadia National Park. While bike rental companies provide the basics, understanding what to bring and how to prepare will enhance your experience on the carriage roads.

What to Wear

Dressing appropriately for biking in Acadia is crucial due to the variable Maine weather. Even on sunny summer days, temperatures can vary widely across the park due to elevation changes and ocean proximity. I recommend wearing:

• Moisture-wicking layers: Even on warm days, sections of the carriage roads pass through shaded forests that can be significantly cooler.
• Padded cycling shorts: These make a huge difference in comfort, especially for longer rides. If you don't own a pair, consider renting them from the bike shop.
• Closed-toe athletic shoes: Avoid sandals or flip-flops, even in summer. The crushed gravel surface can be rough on exposed toes.
• Light rain jacket: Weather in coastal Maine can change quickly. A lightweight, packable rain jacket can save your ride if a shower passes through.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays and prevent insects from flying into your eyes while riding.

Essential Accessories

Planning Your Route

Before setting out with your Acadia National Park bike rental, take time to plan your route based on your fitness level, time available, and interests:

• Assess your fitness honestly: The carriage roads include hills that can be challenging for casual cyclists. Start with shorter, flatter routes if you're unsure of your ability.
• Consider logistics: Plan a route that returns to your starting point unless you've arranged transportation from another location.
• Identify rest stops: Jordan Pond House is the only food service on the carriage road system, though there are numerous scenic spots perfect for a picnic.
• Plan for weather: Check the forecast and have a backup plan if conditions deteriorate. Fog can develop quickly on the island, reducing visibility.
• Allow extra time: The beauty of Acadia invites frequent stops for photos and exploration. A good rule of thumb is to add 50% to your estimated riding time.

Parking Strategies

Parking near carriage road access points can be challenging during peak season. Here are some strategies I've developed over years of visiting:

• Arrive early: Parking lots at popular access points like Eagle Lake and Jordan Pond often fill by 9-10 AM in summer.
• Use the Island Explorer shuttle: From late June through Columbus Day, the free Island Explorer Bicycle Express can transport you and your rental bike to key carriage road access points.
• Consider less popular access points: Parkman Mountain and Brown Mountain Gate House typically have more parking availability than Eagle Lake or Jordan Pond.
• Rent bikes in town: Many visitors stay in Bar Harbor and bike directly from town to the carriage roads, avoiding parking concerns altogether.

Proper preparation not only ensures your safety but also enhances your enjoyment of the carriage roads. With the right gear and planning, your Acadia National Park bike rental experience will be memorable for all the right reasons.

Seasonal Biking Tips

Acadia National Park offers distinct biking experiences throughout the year, with each season presenting unique advantages and challenges. Understanding these seasonal variations will help you make the most of your Acadia National Park bike rental, regardless of when you visit.

Spring (Late April to June)

Advantages:

• Fewer visitors mean less crowded carriage roads
• Wildflowers begin blooming alongside trails
• Better chances of spotting wildlife
• More availability at rental shops and accommodations

Challenges:

• Carriage roads often closed in early spring (March-April) during mud season
• Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain
• Cooler temperatures, especially in mornings and evenings
• Some services and facilities may not be fully operational

Recommendation: Late May to June offers an excellent balance of good weather and lighter crowds. Dress in layers as temperatures can vary widely throughout the day. Check with the National Park Service about carriage road closures before planning your trip.

Spring cycling on the carriage roads (Credit: Acadia Magic)

Summer (July to August)

Advantages:

• Warm, generally pleasant weather
• Longest daylight hours for extended rides
• All park facilities and services fully operational
• Island Explorer shuttle service available to transport bikes

Challenges:

• Peak visitation means crowded carriage roads
• Parking at popular trailheads fills early
• Higher rental rates and limited availability without reservations
• Occasional hot, humid days

Recommendation: If visiting in summer, start your rides early (before 9 AM) or later in the afternoon (after 4 PM) to avoid crowds. Make bike rental reservations well in advance. Consider staying at accommodations within biking distance of carriage road access points to avoid parking challenges.

Fall (September to Mid-October)

Advantages:

• Spectacular fall foliage, especially mid-September to mid-October
• Cooler, crisper air makes for comfortable riding
• Fewer families after Labor Day as schools resume
• Still-operational services with decreasing crowds

Challenges:

• Popular during foliage peak (early-mid October)
• Cooler temperatures, especially in mornings
• Shorter daylight hours limit riding time
• Some rental shops reduce hours after Labor Day

Recommendation: Fall is my personal favorite season for biking in Acadia. The combination of comfortable temperatures and spectacular colors makes for an unforgettable experience. Early to mid-October typically offers the best foliage, but this varies year to year. Layer clothing as mornings can be quite cool but warm up by midday.

Winter (November to March)

Winter cycling in Acadia is limited, as most bike rental shops close for the season. The carriage roads are typically covered with snow and are used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. However, the Park Loop Road is closed to vehicles and can occasionally be accessible by fat-tire bikes when conditions permit. This is primarily for experienced winter cyclists with appropriate gear.

Regardless of when you visit, check the weather forecast before heading out, as coastal Maine weather can change rapidly. Most rental shops offer refunds if you cancel due to inclement weather, but policies vary, so confirm this when making your reservation.

My Personal Experience

Lessons Learned

Over my many subsequent visits and hundreds of miles cycled on the carriage roads, I've gathered some personal insights that might help you make the most of your experience:

• E-bike vs. Traditional: On my third visit, I tried an e-bike for the Around the Mountain loop. The pedal assist made the challenging hills much more manageable, allowing me to focus on the scenery rather than my burning legs. For visitors with limited time who want to cover more ground, or those concerned about the hills, I highly recommend splurging on an e-bike rental. However, traditionalists will appreciate the sense of accomplishment from conquering the terrain on a standard bike.
• Timing is Everything: After experimenting with different time slots, I've found that starting rides around 8 AM provides the most magical experience. The morning light illuminates the landscape beautifully, wildlife is more active, and the carriage roads are significantly less crowded.
• Hidden Gems: While the main loops around Eagle Lake and Jordan Pond are justifiably popular, some of my most memorable rides have been on less-traveled sections like the Amphitheater Loop and the connectors between Upper Hadlock Pond and Parkman Mountain. Rangers once advised me that these lesser-known routes offer the best chances for wildlife sightings—advice that proved true when I encountered a red fox and several deer on these paths.

Pros and Cons of Different Rental Approaches

My most memorable Acadia National Park bike rental experience was actually a spontaneous decision during fall foliage season. I'd planned to hike that day, but the riot of red and gold leaves against the blue sky convinced me to rent an e-bike instead. I covered nearly 25 miles of carriage roads that day, catching the landscape in perfect light as the afternoon sun illuminated the autumn colors. It reminded me that sometimes the best adventures aren't meticulously planned but arise from being open to what the day offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do bike rentals cost in Acadia National Park?

Bike rental prices in and around Acadia National Park vary based on the type of bike and rental duration. Standard comfort bikes typically cost $35-45 per day, with weekly rates around $200. E-bikes are more expensive, ranging from $95-130 per day depending on the model and rental company. Children's bikes cost approximately $30-35 daily. Most rental shops offer discounts for multi-day rentals. Additional equipment like trailers and tag-alongs for children typically cost $25-30 per day. Prices may increase slightly during peak season (July-August) and are often lower in spring and fall.

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

Yes, but with specific limitations. Only Class 1 e-bikes are permitted on Acadia's carriage roads and Schoodic bike paths. Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only (no throttle) and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited on carriage roads. All e-bikes must adhere to the same 20 mph speed limit as traditional bikes. This policy was implemented by the National Park Service in 2019 and allows e-bikes to be used in the same areas where traditional bicycles are permitted. If you're renting from a reputable shop in Bar Harbor or nearby towns, their e-bikes will be compliant with these regulations.

What's the best bike route for families with children?

The Jordan Pond Loop is widely considered the most family-friendly bike route in Acadia National Park. At approximately 3.5 miles with minimal elevation change, it offers spectacular views of the Bubble Mountains while keeping the riding experience manageable for children. Another excellent option is the Witch Hole Pond Loop (3.3 miles), which features gentle terrain and lovely pond views. For families with older children looking for a bit more challenge, the Eagle Lake Loop (6 miles) provides a longer ride with moderate hills and beautiful scenery. All these routes feature frequent benches for rest stops and are wide enough for parents to ride alongside younger cyclists. Many rental shops offer tag-alongs or trailer attachments for very young children.

Do I need to make bike rental reservations in advance?

During peak season (mid-June through August), making advance reservations for bike rentals is highly recommended, especially if you're planning to visit on weekends or holidays. E-bikes, in particular, tend to book up quickly, sometimes weeks in advance. For standard bike rentals during weekdays or shoulder seasons (May-early June or September-October), reservations are less critical but still advisable. Most rental companies in the area have online reservation systems and typically require a small deposit. Some smaller operations may only take phone reservations. If you have specific bicycle needs (tandem bikes, child trailers, or high-end road or gravel bikes), these specialized equipment options are limited and should definitely be reserved ahead of time.

Where can I park to access the carriage roads?

Several parking lots provide convenient access to Acadia's carriage roads. The Eagle Lake Carriage Road Parking Area on Route 233 is one of the most popular starting points, offering immediate access to the Eagle Lake and Around the Mountain loops. Jordan Pond House has a large parking lot with direct access to the Jordan Pond Loop, though it fills quickly in summer. Other good options include the Parkman Mountain parking area for accessing Aunt Betty Pond Loop, and the Brown Mountain Gate House lot for the Amphitheater Loop. The Hulls Cove Visitor Center provides access via a connector trail. During peak season (July-August), arrive before 9 AM to secure parking at popular locations, or consider using the fare-free Island Explorer shuttle service, which has bike racks and stops at major carriage road access points.

When is the best time of year to bike in Acadia National Park?

Early September to mid-October offers the ideal combination of pleasant weather, reduced crowds, and spectacular scenery for biking in Acadia. Temperatures are comfortable for riding (typically 60-70°F during the day), summer humidity has subsided, and fall foliage begins emerging in mid-September, reaching its peak in early-mid October. Late May through June is another excellent period, with spring blooms, moderate temperatures, and fewer visitors than summer. July and August offer warm weather and long daylight hours but come with peak crowds and humidity. Winter biking (November-April) is generally not feasible on carriage roads due to snow and seasonal closures. Additionally, many bike rental operations close or reduce hours after Columbus Day weekend.

Conclusion

After exploring the various aspects of Acadia National Park bike rentals and cycling opportunities, it's clear that experiencing the park's historic carriage roads on two wheels offers an unparalleled connection to this remarkable landscape. The thoughtfully designed network of 45 miles of crushed-stone paths provides access to some of Acadia's most breathtaking scenery while honoring the vision of John D. Rockefeller Jr., who gifted these roads to preserve the natural beauty of Mount Desert Island.

Whether you choose a standard bike for a traditional experience or opt for an e-bike to extend your range and conquer more challenging terrain, the key to a successful biking adventure in Acadia lies in proper planning and preparation. From selecting the right rental shop to understanding seasonal conditions, each decision contributes to creating your perfect park experience.

The diverse rental options around Bar Harbor cater to all preferences and budgets. Traditional shops like Acadia Bike and Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop offer comprehensive selections with knowledgeable staff, while specialized services like Acadia Ebike Adventure provide unique conveniences with their in-park delivery. For families, the availability of children's equipment ensures that cyclists of all ages can enjoy the carriage roads safely.

As you plan your cycling journey through Acadia, remember that the experience is about more than just covering miles—it's about immersing yourself in the landscape at a pace that allows you to appreciate the intricate balance between human engineering and natural splendor. Take time to stop at the historic stone bridges, breathe in the fresh air scented with pine and ocean salt, and watch for wildlife that might cross your path.

The seasonality of Acadia offers different rewards throughout the year, from the vibrant renewal of spring to the spectacular color palette of autumn. While summer brings perfect weather, the shoulder seasons often provide a more contemplative experience with fewer fellow travelers sharing the paths.

My personal experiences cycling through Acadia over the years have created some of my most cherished outdoor memories. There's something uniquely satisfying about powering yourself through this magnificent landscape, feeling the gentle grade of the carriage roads beneath your wheels, and discovering vistas that simply can't be appreciated from a car window.

As you finalize your plans for an Acadia National Park bike rental adventure, I encourage you to approach it with an open mind and flexible itinerary. Some of the most magical moments come from unexpected discoveries—a morning mist rising from a pond, a perfect patch of wild blueberries, or a sudden clearing offering an ocean view. These serendipitous experiences are what transform a simple bike ride into an unforgettable journey through one of America's most beloved national parks.

Related Articles