Biking In Acadia National Park

OVERVIEW

Ride a bicycle along the spectacularly scenic carriage roads that run through Acadia National Park and learn fascinating details about their history. To indulge his passion for horseback riding near his summer estate in Bar Harbor, philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. funded the construction of the carriage roads starting in 1913, insisting that they be free from motorized vehicles – a condition still in effect. The roads look much like they did more than a century ago and are considered to be the finest example of hand-cut broken-stone roads in America. While pedaling along on your 21-speed bicycle, you will notice that the cut granite stones along the edges of the roads serve as natural guard rails. They resemble molars, the reason their nickname is “Rockefeller’s Teeth.” The steel-and-concrete bridges are also noteworthy as they are finished with stone to give them a 19th-century appearance. The guide will go into greater detail about the carriage roads during stops.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride a bicycle along the carriage roads that crisscross Acadia National Park.
• Take comfort in knowing that the roads are off limits to motorized vehicles.
• Notice how the roads follow the natural contours of the land to maximize views.
• Learn how John D. Rockefeller Jr. financed and influenced the road construction.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.