The highest paved road in Maine.

Cycling Cadillac Mountain - the #1 Bike Climb in Maine

Ride 5.6 miles gaining 1,426’ at 4.7% average grade.

“Located in Acadia National Park right on the picturesque Maine coast, Cadillac Mountain is a very scenic climb that rises from just above sea level and is very likely the most difficult ascent in the state.  It is over mostly moderate and fairly steady grade along the majority of its route.  The views on top are quite good and you will likely have some company (mostly auto traffic) on your way up but not so much that it ruins the climb.

From climb start at the junction of Routes 3 and 223 in Bar Harbor, head south on 223 over shallow grade.  You then stair step up the hill which includes a small descent.  The grade then gradually increases and at mile 1.1 bear right into the national park to find a short stretch of solid grade.  At the junction turn left to find shallow grade.  From this point you ride along up and down slope for one mile with some traffic most days.  At mile 2.2, turn left to the summit into the woods and find the steepest sustained climbing on the hill.  Soon very good views appear to your left as you ride along the ridgeline as the trees disappear.  The grade eventually eases back and then when it ramps up again, more very good scenery is encountered.  Towards the summit you find a short descent.  Climbing then resumes over shallow grade and the hill ends at a parking area with hiking possibilities.  The descent of Cadillac Mountain is mostly uncomplicated except perhaps for its intermittent traffic.” (This is quote presented with the approval of John Summerson, from his book, The Complete Guide to Climbing (by Bike) in the Northeast, pg. 68.)