The County 2018 | Aroostook County Tourism | Page 12

THE COUNTY | 2018 THE MANY QUAINT COMMUNITIES OF THE COUNTY make for perfect cycling and mountain biking. Deep woods trails and rolling hills offer endless challenges to every skill level or personal preference. BIKEMAINE 2018: LA TERRE ENTRE DEUX For the first time this September, Aroostook County will host BikeMaine 2018, a week-long pedal along a winding 320-mile route through the St. John Valley and Northern Aroostook County, with spectacular scenery and intimate communities. There’s nothing quite like the camaraderie of friendly cyclists gliding amid our gently rolling hills, panoramic views stretching to the horizon— with the reassurance of route support along the way. For more information and to register for BikeMaine 2018, visit Ride.BikeMaine.org. BikeMaine 2018 isn’t just for those who ride. Throughout the duration of the trip communities along the route will be celebrating riders and visitors alike. Check out the route map on page 61 to start planning your own trip. ROAD BIKING Aroostook County’s wide-open spaces and rolling countryside beckon the cyclist’s soul. You’ll enjoy a big sky, historic communities, and very little traffic. Cycle loops through Potato Country where summertime pink and white potato blossoms are a visual splendor. Or go further afield to explore the multi-million-acre North Maine Woods region, home to an abundance of natural resources and excellent riding. St. John Valley offers ridge-to-ridge riding against spectacular forest and mountain backdrops. Try the Tour de la Valley and stop at historic towns and villages along the way to experience French Acadian culture. Other rides include the Century Ride and the Haynesville Loop starting in Houlton. MOUNTAIN BIKING Aroostook also offers Maine’s most extensive system of off-road biking on out-of-service rail trails. These multi-use trails offer over 100 miles of flat riding surfaces between Houlton and St. Francis. Plus, almost every Nordic trail becomes a great mountain biking trail once the snow is gone. For more information about biking in the region visit our website, MaineTrailFinder.com, or call Judy at 888-216-2463. 10