Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
In 1947 devastating forest fires swept across many areas of Maine, in-
cluding much of Acadia. When fire dangers rise, traditionally in late
summer and early fall, state officials will sometimes ban smoking on the
trails.
Use all smoking materials carefully at all
times, but especially when fire danger is
high. Field strip all cigarettes and pack out
the butts.
Mountain Biking
Mountain bikers are just beginning to discover the fun that awaits in rid-
ing the maze of paper company haul roads that crisscross the northern
and eastern portions of the state.
Back roads beckon in nearly every county. Old railroad rights of way,
often used by snowmobiles in the winter, offer perfect forest riding. Many
old logging roads in the Western Mountains also offer exciting ride possi-
bilities.
Major ski areas are now stepping forward and have modified their lifts to
take bicycles for thrilling downhill runs during the summer.
Acadia National Park - with its 50 miles of groomed, gravel carriage
roads that are off-limits to motor vehicles, its 22-mile scenic Park Loop
Road, and four-mile road to the summit of 1,532-foot Cadillac Mountain -
is a biker's paradise.
Most bike shops around the state will rent bikes. Rates range from $9 to
$25 per day, depending on model.
One good source for backcountry biking information is the Maine Depart-
ment of Conservation. During the last 20 years hundreds of miles of old
railroad lines have been abandoned and converted into multiple-use
trails. Snowmobiles use them in winter and bicyclists and ATVs are
allowed on them the rest of the year. While no official bike maps exists,
you can request a map of ATV trails, which will do just fine. Snowmobile
trail maps are not as reliable as they often include river and lake cross-
ings on ice or across rough and swampy areas when there is four feet of
snow to smooth out rocky terrain.
You can get the ATV map by contacting the Conservation Department at
22 State House Station, Augusta 04333.
287-4968.
