The best traffic-free bike rides in Kennebec County

There are 4 no-traffic road cycling routes currently featured in Kennebec County, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.

Yes, the Kennebec River Rail Trail loop from Augusta is an easy route, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. This 32.8 km route is mostly flat and offers scenic views along the river.

Kennebec County's no-traffic routes offer a mix of terrain. You'll find flat, paved rail trails like the Kennebec River Rail Trail, as well as routes with rolling hills and scenic vistas, particularly around the Belgrade Lakes region and forested uplands. Routes like the Pond Road loop feature moderate elevation changes.

For a longer ride, consider the Long Pond – Readfield Beach loop from Echo Lake Watershed Preserve. This route spans approximately 56 km and offers a more extended cycling experience through scenic landscapes.

The best seasons for road cycling in Kennebec County are typically spring, summer, and fall. Spring offers lush greenery, summer provides warm weather for lake views, and fall showcases stunning foliage. The Kennebec River Rail Trail is particularly pleasant during these times.

Yes, all the featured no-traffic road cycling routes in Kennebec County are designed as loops. Examples include the Pond Road loop, the Kennebec River Rail Trail loop from Augusta, and the Cross Hill loop.

Many routes offer scenic views of the Kennebec River and various lakes. For instance, the Kennebec River Rail Trail passes through charming towns like Hallowell and Gardiner. Routes around the Belgrade Lakes region provide views of crystal-clear lakes like Long Pond and Messalonskee Lake, as well as forested uplands.

The Kennebec River Rail Trail offers picturesque river views, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and access to the historic towns of Augusta, Hallowell, and Gardiner. You can also find the Ticonic Footbridge (Two Cent Bridge) nearby.

Parking is generally available at trailheads, especially for popular routes like the Kennebec River Rail Trail, which has access points in Augusta, Hallowell, and Gardiner. For other routes, look for designated parking areas near the starting points, often in or near small towns.

Yes, especially along the Kennebec River Rail Trail, which connects directly to the charming towns of Augusta, Hallowell, and Gardiner. These towns offer various local shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can stop for refreshments or a meal during your ride.

Road cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the serene river views along the Kennebec River Rail Trail to the rolling hills and picturesque lakes of the Belgrade Lakes region. The quiet, low-traffic roads and the charm of the small towns are often highlighted as key attractions.