Min Distance: 109km / 68 miles
Time Limit: 7 hour, 15 min
Controls: Portland, ME; Portsmouth, NH
RUSA Perm Route: 0000
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List of Official Finishers
Description
To coast or not to coast? What will fix your desire to tour Southeastern Maine?
Portland is Maine’s largest city and arguably the culinary capital of New England where it’s hard to get a bad meal or a lousy local beer. To/from Portland riders will use the Eastern Trail which is well known rail trail through Marshland and forests. It also avoids much of high traffic and congested roads around the city. The path is unpaved and normally in very good condition but be mindful of soft, sandy sections, particularity when there’s been little rain as of late.
Riders can also choose to add miles and hug the Maine coastline and visit the touristy seaside town of Old Orchard Beach. If staying slightly inland riders will encounter only light traffic until Ogunquit but will miss the ocean views. If staying closer to the coast, be mindful of traffic on Rt. 1.
Thing to Note
Services abound with many lodging options in Portland and Portsmouth but it’s best to book early. A few miles of the Eastern Trail is unavoidable without adding considerable distance in the section south of South Portland, ME but alternatives exist beyond that for riders who prefer pavement.
Suggested Routes
As submitted: 68 Miles, 2,500' EvaluationSemi-Inland and Low Traffic