Bike Tour Map & Details
More Tours
Maine Lakes & Mountains
- Tour 22 - Lake Auburn
- Tour 23 - Franklin Heritage
- Tour 24 - Bethel and Evans Notch
- Tour 25 - Andover & Grafton Notch
- Tour 26 - Western Foothills
- Tour 27 - Fryeburg Favorites
- Tour Adventure Cycling - Northern Tier Route (Maine Section)
- Tour Adventure Cycling Routes in Maine - Overview
Other Regional Tours
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Tour 23 - Franklin Heritage
Region: Maine Lakes and Mountains
Highlights: hiking trails, historical landmarks, lake, pond, river views, mountain views, museums, rural, state/national park, wildlife
| Name | Distance | Terrain |
|---|---|---|
| Webb Lake Loop or Optional Side Trip (on 54-mile ride) | 16 | Moderate terrain, hilly, for intermediate cyclists |
| Strong?New Vineyard Loop | 29 | Moderate terrain, hilly, for intermediate cyclists |
| Strong?Phillips?Weld?Wilton Loopp | 54 | Challenging terrain for experienced cyclists |
| Strong Century + | 107 | Varied terrain, steep hills, for experienced cyclists |
Earmuffs, Stanley Steamers, the Narrow Gauge Railway, lumber, mountains, and moose all contribute to the diverse and colorful heritage of Franklin County. How they all relate to this wonderful county is explained at the many museums and historical societies along the route. This rich heritage, combined with world-class scenery, makes these rides unforgettable.
The 16-mile loop leaves from the village of Weld and leads you right to Mt. Blue State Park that has magnificent mountain scenery. The 29-mile loop is moderately hilly with one flat section along the Sandy River Valley. The 54-mile loop is also mainly in the Sandy River Valley but has challenging hills with rewarding scenery. The 107-mile loop is a challenging ride for experienced cyclists. This loop makes for a superb multi-day exploration of the lakes and mountains, Sandy River & Rangeley Lakes Railroad in Phillips.
Special features: Beautiful scenery; historic Franklin County; college town of Farmington; historic towns of Stratton, Strong, Rangeley, and Kingfield; Rangeley Lakes State Park; Mt. Blue State Park in Weld; Rangeley Lakes Region Logging Museum; Dead River Historical Society in Stratton; Wilhelm Reich Museum; views of the Bigelow Range; Sugarloaf and Saddleback Mountains; Sandy River & Rangeley Lakes Railroad Museum in Phillip
Road conditions: Generally fair
Cautions: Heavy traffic in Farmington; narrow roads with no shoulders; logging trucks on ME 4 and ME 2. Watch for moose and deer. There are long stretches without services, so carry spare parts and plenty of food, water, and warm clothes for changeable weather.
Starting point: Rides originate (except 16-mile option) from Maine Department of Transportation park and ride lot at the intersection of ME 4 and US 2 in Farmington. Some spaces are designated for overnight parking. The 16-mile ride begins at the junction of ME 142 and ME 156 in weld village.
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