Cycling Evans Notch (#5 Maine from the north and #10 from the south)
Start of climb.
John Summerson:
“The north side of Evans Notch is a shallow grade hill close to the New Hampshire border. The road is quite narrow and the last mile carries more solid (but not steep) slope. It ends at the obvious notch in a pleasant setting.” (This is quote presented with the approval of John Summerson, from his book, The Complete Guide to Climbing (by Bike) in the Northeast, pg. 65.)
Climb summary by PJAMM ambassador BFF Bruce Hamilton:
Evans Notch is a relatively easy climb that can be ridden over and back to do both sides on the same ride. Very scenic and quiet with little traffic the road winds mostly through the forest with an opening at the summit providing a nice view. The ride from the south side starts on the Maine-New Hampshire border and this is the westernmost ride in Maine. Not difficult by PJAMM standards but a scenic and enjoyable ride – would be particularly nice to ride during autumn.
Thanks much Bruce and Stacy!!
Climb summary by PJAMM ambassador Dan Razum.
The climb proper starts as we ride over Stony Brook. However, the road has a slight incline for a couple of miles before reaching Stony Brook. So if you start earlier, perhaps near Hastings Campground or Wild River, you will have a gentle gradient before reaching Stony Brook. After crossing the bridge over Stony Brook the gradient changes from 1~2% to 5~6%, which is noticeable.
The climb isn't too long, only a couple of miles and most of the climbing is in the first mile. The second mile is rolling terrain, a little climbing mixed with a little downhill and flat sections. The road is narrow but it is in good condition. There are no lane markings, so no official shoulder, but traffic is light; there are no houses along the road so the cars are tourists and visitors.
We pass through a thick forest the whole time which provides a lot of shade but no scenic views. As we reach the top of the climb the forest parts and there is a nice scenic view of the mountains and valley below. You are likely to encounter some cars or motorcycles at the top, admiring the view.
View at the top of the climb.