The Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Riding in Maine
Maine, known as the Pine Tree State, offers some of the most breathtaking motorcycle routes in New England. From coastal roads to mountain passes, riders can experience diverse landscapes and unforgettable adventures. Before setting out on your Maine motorcycle journey, consider exploring the best motorcycle rides in New Hampshire or Vermont to extend your New England adventure.
1. The Scenic Rangeley Lakes Loop
Location: Western Maine
Distance: 88 miles
The Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway showcases Maine’s diverse landscapes, from pristine lakes to majestic mountains. This mostly smooth, two-lane paved road winds through friendly villages and offers ample wildlife viewing opportunities. Riders can take breaks at various lookout points to soak in the stunning vistas.
2. The Scenic Pines and Lakes Route: Route 17
Location: Rangeley area
Route 17 in the Rangeley area is famous for its mountain and lake views. The highlight of this ride is the Height of Land scenic vista, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape that will leave you in awe.
3. The Old Canada Road – Route 201
Skowhegan to Jackman
Route 201, also known as the Old Canada Road Scenic Byway, follows the curves of the Kennebec River. This historic route offers a perfect mix of twisty sections and open straights. Be sure to stop at the Attean Overlook and Robbins Hill Scenic Area for breathtaking views.
4. Acadia National Park Loop Road
Location: Mount Desert Island
Distance: 27 miles
Experience the rugged beauty of Maine’s coastline on the Acadia National Park Loop Road. This ride offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, granite cliffs, and lush forests. Don’t miss popular attractions like Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, and Cadillac Mountain.
5. Route 113 Border Cruise
Location: Gilead to Fryeburg
Distance: 28 miles
This scenic route takes riders through the heart of White Mountain National Forest, offering a perfect blend of twists, turns, and natural beauty. The tree-canopied highway provides a cool, shaded ride on hot summer days. As you cruise along the Maine-New Hampshire border, you’ll experience the best of both states’ landscapes.
Best Motorcycle Rides in Maine
1. Upton to Madrid
Location: Western Maine
Distance: 90 miles
This ride takes you through the heart of Western Maine’s mountains and lakes. Begin in Upton and make your way to Madrid, passing through Grafton Notch State Park and the famous Height of Land overlook. The route offers stunning views of Rangeley Lake and the surrounding mountains.
2. Aroostook Scenic Byway
Location: Northern Maine
Distance: 105 miles
For those seeking a true taste of rural Maine, the Aroostook Scenic Byway is an excellent choice. This ride takes you through vast forests and farmland, offering glimpses of Maine’s agricultural heritage. On clear days, you’ll be treated to views of Baxter State Park and the majestic Mt. Katahdin.
3. Newfield to Gray
Distance: 50 miles
This shorter ride is perfect for those looking to explore southern Maine’s lakes and forests. The route takes you past Sebago Lake and numerous smaller ponds, offering plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife. The winding roads and varied scenery make this an enjoyable ride for all skill levels.
4. Skowhegan to Greenville
Distance: 121 miles
This longer ride takes you from Skowhegan to Greenville, offering a mix of mountain and river views along the way. Follow the Kennebec River Valley before reaching Moosehead Lake, Maine’s largest lake. The scenic byway status of this route ensures well-maintained roads and plenty of scenic overlooks.
Motorcycle Laws in Maine
Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Maine’s motorcycle laws. Some key points to remember:
- Helmets are required for riders and passengers under 18 years old
- Eye protection is mandatory unless the motorcycle has a windscreen
- Daytime use of headlights is required
- Lane splitting is not allowed
Planning Your Maine Motorcycle Adventure
When planning your motorcycle trip to Maine, consider the following tips:
- Best riding season: Late spring to early fall (May to October) offers the most pleasant weather conditions.
- Weather preparation: Pack layers and rain gear, as Maine’s weather can be unpredictable.
- Scenic stops: Plan your route to include scenic overlooks and local attractions.
- Lodging: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak summer months.
- Fuel planning: Some rural areas have limited gas stations, so plan your fuel stops accordingly.
Maine’s motorcycle routes offer something for every rider, from coastal cruises to mountain adventures. As you plan your trip, consider extending your journey to neighboring states. The best motorcycle rides in Massachusetts offer a different flavor of New England scenery, while motorcycle road rides in Maryland provide a mix of coastal and mountain experiences further south. Whatever route you choose, Maine’s diverse landscapes and welcoming communities are sure to make your motorcycle adventure unforgettable.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
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Vishwanath Mathpati
I am Vishwanath Mathpati, a full-time Blogger and Motorcyclist from Bidar, Karnataka. I love writing about my Motorcycles Stories and Riding Gears on this blog.
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