Pedal Maine: Your Guide to the Best Road, Gravel, and Charity Cycling Events

By • • Challenging Activities, Charitable Cause, Community Events, Cycling & Fat Biking, Pine Tree State

Exciting Events

A group of cyclists riding road bikes on a winding coastal highway in Maine with a scenic ocean background and a white lighthouse on a rocky cliff.
Cyclists enjoy a breathtaking ocean view and classic New England scenery during a coastal Maine road ride.

Are you ready to experience the ultimate outdoor freedom on two wheels? Maine offers some of the most spectacular cycling […]

Are you ready to experience the ultimate outdoor freedom on two wheels? Maine offers some of the most spectacular cycling territory in the entire nation. From the rugged peaks of the Western Mountains to the wave-swept Atlantic coastline, our state boasts an incredible variety of terrain. Consequently, cyclists can find everything from elite endurance races to leisurely, family-friendly charity tours at the many cycling events in Maine.

This comprehensive guide highlights the absolute best road races, gravel adventures, and local community bike festivals. Therefore, you should lace up your cycling shoes and pump up your tires right now. It is truly time to explore the very best cycling events that Maine has to offer this season.

Legendary Road Races and Inspiring Charity Rides

First and foremost, Maine has a deep tradition of cycling for a great cause. These massive, multi-day road events draw thousands of passionate riders from across the globe. As a result, you can challenge your body while actively raising crucial funds for fantastic regional organizations.

Trek Across Maine

  • Event Dates: Father’s Day Weekend, June 19–21

  • Location: Pineland Farms, New Gloucester, Maine

  • Contact: 207-624-0312 | [email protected]

  • Official Website: Trek Across Maine

The Trek Across Maine stands as a legendary three-day road tour. For many years, it has remained the premier fundraising event for the American Lung Association. Cyclists depart from the beautiful rolling hills of Pineland Farms.

Subsequently, participants conquer a total of 180 scenic miles over three action-packed days. This means riders average roughly 60 miles per day. Along the route, you will experience quintessential small towns, historic farmlands, and friendly local rest stops. Ultimately, it is a highly supported ride that brings the entire Maine cycling community together.

Bike MS: Great Maine Getaway

Are you looking for a fantastic coastal getaway? If so, the Bike MS event offers an extraordinary two-day seaside experience. The ride launches directly from the campus of the University of New England.

In addition, riders can choose custom route options ranging from 25 miles to a full 100-mile century ride. Each route hugs the stunning southern Maine coastline. Meanwhile, you will smell the salty Atlantic air as you pedal past sandy beaches. Best of all, the organizers host a classic, celebratory lobster bake on Saturday night.

Maine Lighthouse Ride

Similarly, the popular Maine Lighthouse Ride is an absolute dream for sightseeing cyclists. Hosted by the Eastern Trail Alliance, this event starts in South Portland.

Furthermore, it provides four distinct route lengths to accommodate every fitness level. For example, you can choose a 25, 40, 62, or 100-mile course. Each route showcases the dramatic coastal scenery of southern Maine. Because of this, you will pedal past several of the most iconic, historic lighthouses in the region. This ride sells out incredibly fast every single year.

The Dempsey Challenge

The Dempsey Challenge is the premier fundraising event for the renowned Dempsey Center. Founded by actor Patrick Dempsey, this event takes place in Lewiston.

The ride features fully supported road routes designed for maximum enjoyment. Meanwhile, ambitious cyclists can tackle the challenging 100-mile century loop. The local communities line the streets to cheer for the riders. Most importantly, every dollar raised helps provide free, vital care and support services to people impacted by cancer.

Rugged Gravel Grinders and Mountain Bike Challenges

On the other hand, if you prefer dirt, rocks, and remote wilderness, Maine has you completely covered. The interior of the state features massive trail networks and endless miles of gravel logging roads. Accordingly, these events offer raw adventure.

+------------------------------------------+--------------------+-------------------------+
| Event Name                               | Date               | Location                |
+------------------------------------------+--------------------+-------------------------+
| Carrabassett Backcountry Challenge       | July 18            | Carrabassett Valley     |
| MAINEly Gravel                           | August 8           | New Gloucester          |
| Maine Woods Rambler                      | September 26       | Millinocket             |
| Fon Solo Gravel / Cider Cross            | October 3–4        | Alna                    |
+------------------------------------------+--------------------+-------------------------+

Carrabassett Backcountry Cycle Challenge

Get ready for an intense, pure mountain bike race. Specifically, this epic endurance challenge takes place in the spectacular Carrabassett Valley. Riders compete on rugged singletrack, doubletrack, and remote mountain trails. For this reason, the race offers grueling 25, 50, and 100-kilometer courses. Ultimately, it will test your technical skills and physical stamina.

MAINEly Gravel

  • Event Date: August 8

  • Location: New Gloucester, Maine

  • Official Website: MAINEly Gravel

Gravel riding is exploding in popularity across New England. In particular, the MAINEly Gravel race is a premier event based out of New Gloucester. This event features highly competitive 35-mile and 58-mile courses. Consequently, cyclists navigate unpaved backcountry roads, hard-packed dirt, and rolling hills. It is a fantastic test of pure grit.

Maine Woods Rambler

In contrast to coastal rides, the Maine Woods Rambler highlights the truly remote beauty of the Maine North Woods. This exceptional gravel event takes place in Millinocket. Naturally, it offers scenic 20, 50, and 100-mile routes. You will ride deep into the wilderness. In addition, many segments provide breath-taking, panoramic views of Mount Katahdin.

Fon Solo Gravel / Cider Cross

Finally, celebrate autumn in Maine with a dynamic weekend of off-road cycling. This multi-discipline event takes place in Alna. It is a proud part of the competitive Maine Gravel Series. To begin, Saturday features varied gravel distance courses ranging from 25 to 49 miles. Afterwards, Sunday shifts focus to fast, muddy cyclocross racing action.

Local Community Rides and Family Festivals

In addition to the competitive races, Maine hosts numerous community-focused rides. These events prioritize fun, local culture, and beautiful scenery.

  • Schoodic Bike Ride (June 20 | Acadia National Park): This is a scenic, family-friendly 13-mile ride. It loops around the quieter Schoodic Peninsula. Moreover, all proceeds directly benefit local community arts programming. Discover details at Schoodic Institute.

  • East Bayside Trail Fest (June 28 | Portland, Maine): Co-hosted by Portland Trails and the Bicycle Coalition of Maine. This lively urban festival celebrates local trail networks with fun group rides. Find information at Portland Trails and Bicycle Coalition of Maine.

  • Champion the Cure Challenge (August 15 | Brewer, Maine): A fantastic charity ride that raises critical funds for local cancer research. Therefore, the course follows the beautiful Penobscot River north toward Lincoln. Register at Northern Light Health Foundation.

Smart Training and Preparation Tips for Maine Cycling

  1. Prepare for Variable Weather: Maine weather changes quickly. Therefore, always pack a lightweight windbreaker or rain jacket.

  2. Choose the Right Tires: Use wider, tubeless tires with aggressive tread for the gravel events.

  3. Hydrate and Fuel Properly: Bring plenty of water and energy snacks for remote northern routes.

In closing, Maine is waiting for you. Grab your bike, select your favorite event, and register today!

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