Eastern Maine Trail Named One of the Best in the Nation for Bike Riding

The older I have gotten, the more I've come to appreciate the amazing state we live in.

Maine is a true treasure. From its beautiful rocky coastline to the rolling foothills and mountains, the Pine Tree State is a natural wonderland. I like to call it a natural amusement park for all those looking for adventure and serenity.

Now, with more people stepping outside to enjoy nature, it shouldn't be a surprise to see a rise in attention from national publications, including a recent bike riding post from Fodor's.

The travel experts published an article about the best 15 biking trails in the entire nation. Unsurprisingly, one of Maine's most legendary trails made the prestigious list, that being the Down East Sunrise Trail.

This beautiful, 87-mile off-road trail is part of the monstrous East Coast Greenway, and features the wondrous splendors and atmosphere of Eastern Maine. It's also the longest off-road section of the entire 3,000-mile Greenway, which spans from Florida to Maine.

Starting in Ellsworth and flowing up to Ayer's Junction in Pembroke, the Sunrise Trail is absolutely perfect for any cyclist, especially when the weather is just right, and the conditions are ideal.

As for the scenery, I'll let Fodor's describe that.

With its quaint seaside villages, blueberry thickets, cranberry bogs, salmon-filled rivers, glassy ponds that reflect blue skies and puffy clouds, and dense woods that explode in fiery shades in autumn, the former Calais Branch Railroad Corridor is surely one of the prettiest portions (of the Greenway).

That seems quite nice now, doesn't it?

But let's also not forget the likelihood of seeing some of Maine's amazing wildlife like moose, deer, birds, wild turkeys, and small rodents. I'm sure you are starting to pick up the massive Maine vibes that the Sunrise Trail gives off.

The folks over at All Trails have a grade of "moderate" for the trail, which isn't surprising considering the length and the potential of challenging conditions. The site also mentions that the best times to visit are between April and October.

If you want an authentic Maine outdoors experience on your bike, look no further than the incredible Down East Sunrise Trail. I guarantee it will not disappoint.

And while you are out there, make sure to experience the rest of this incredible state. Once you fall in love, you will never let go.