Once the weather turns warm and the snow melts we start thinking of moving on to our favorite warm weather activities. In the “in Between” seasons, getting out on you’re favorite trails isn’t as cut and dry as say mid-July. Freeze thaw cycles, blowdowns, melting and settling frost, muddy areas and ice and snow are all a concern. …ok lets get to the point. Trail use in early spring and late fall can cause damage to the trails. So it’s advised to stay off them until they are properly dried out and trail crews have had a chance to clean things up. Area trail crews would much rather focus on building new, rather than fixing old. So please do your part and respect trail closures. We’re also located in the heart of the highest mountains and terrain in the state of Maine. While your friends are ripping singletrack in the central and southern part of the state, we are still waiting for the snow to melt and the spring run off to subside. Patience grasshopper. Anyways, all this does not mean you can’t enjoy getting out for a ride, you just need to know what else is available and maybe more suitable for the season. So, here are our suggestions…
The Narrow Gauge Pathway, Carrabassett Valley:
Stretching for just under 5 miles along the Carrabassett River along the old Narrow Gauge Railbed. The Narrow Gauge Pathway proper is always open and available no matter what the conditions. Just make note that the singletrack trails off of the pathway remain closed during mud season, as well as most all of the bike trails in the Carrabassett Valley network. 3 Trailheads provide direct access, Airport Trailhead, Campbell Field Trailhead and the Stratton Brook Trailhead. For updates and current conditions visit: https://carrabassettnemba.org/trail-conditions/
Caribou Pond/Valley Road, Carrabassett Valley:
Ride with caution, expect mixed conditions. 1 Mile north of the Sugarloaf Access Road you’ll find the Caribou Pond Road. This gravel Road gently climbs from rt 27 and ends at Caribou pond, the headwaters of the Carrabassett River. The road can be cut into two sections; to the gate, and to the pond. From rt 27 it is 3.75 miles to a locked gate. From rt 27 all the way to the Pond it’s just about 7 miles. It is not uncommon for the trail surface to turn from dirt to snow beyond the gate. If you time it right and are traveling on a fat bike you may have the pleasure riding on a firm snow surface above the gate. So, beware of the conditions at elevation.
Flagstaff Road, Eustis:
Flagstaff road in Eustis is located just north of the Cathedral Pines Campground off rt 27. About two miles of gravel road will lead you out to Myers beach. A beautiful sandy beach/picnic/camping site on the shores of Flagstaff lake with amazing views of the Bigelow Range.
Middle Road, Kingfield-New Portland:
A favorite among “gravel bike” owners, the ride out the Middle Road also offers (if you wish) a short detour to the historic Wire Bridge. A safe/recommended starting point is the Gateway Parking area just south of the village of Kingfield off Maine Street/rt 27. From the parking area, head north on Maine Street and cross the Carrabassett river on rt 16/Lexington Road. You’ll shortly veer right onto Riverside Street. Riverside Street soon becomes gravel where you cross the New Portland town line and Riverside Street becomes Middle Road. This gravel road continues for about 8 miles. About half way down the Middle Road turn right down the Wire Bridge road to visit the historic Wire Bridge.
Titcomb Mountain, Farmington:
Often Titcomb Mountain in Farmington is a good early season option. Historically some of their singletrack mountain bike specific trails dry out early and can be enjoyed using some caution to stay on the open and dry terrain. Constructed by passionate community members as well as help from the Central Maine NEMBA community, more info and conditions can be found at: https://www.titcombmountain.com/the-mountain/mountain-biking
Kennebec Valley Trail, Bingham to Oakland:
This multi use 40+ mile trail offers some early season riding with multiple spots to hop on the trail. Access points include Bingham, Solon Dam, North Anson, Madison, Norridgewock and Oakland.
More info can be found via a google search of “Kennebec Valley Trail”.
