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three bikers riding on a gravel path in the maine woods in fall foliage

Maine Gravel Cycling Weekends

Gear up for a summer of adventure at AMC’s Maine Gravel Cycling Weekends—three lodge-based cycling events in Maine that take you deep into the 100-Mile Wilderness. Ride rugged backcountry routes, connect with fellow gravel biking enthusiasts, and experience the best bike rides in Maine, all from the comfort of AMC’s scenic Maine lodges. Whether you’re exploring gravel bike trails for the first time or chasing your next challenge, each weekend blends community, curated rides, and the beauty of the outdoors into one unforgettable ride.

What to Expect

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or new to gravel riding, there's something for everyone at AMC's Maine Gravel Cycling Weekends. Each weekend includes:

  • Epic gravel rides through 330 miles of pristine gravel roads. Tackle everything from smooth paths to rugged trails, with routes designed to challenge and excite every level of cyclist.
  • Insightful skill clinics on bikepacking, route planning, and essential maintenance. Whether you're fixing a flat or mastering navigation, we've got you covered.
  • A vibrant community of passionate gravel cyclists. Share tips and tricks, make new friends, and experience the thrill of the ride together.
Mainegravel 15

2025 Gravel Cycling Event Details

Each of our 2025 Maine Gravel Cycling Weekends offers something a little different—but every one blends curated gravel bike trails, lodge comforts and good company. Whether you're tackling the best bike rides in Maine or just starting out, you're invited to ride at your own pace, relax in our rustic cabins, and recharge beneath the stars in an International Dark Sky Park. Expect hearty meals, scenic views, and the kind of trails that keep calling you back.

Garrick Hoffman

Summer Gravel Weekend

August 1-3, 2025
Medawisla Lodge & Cabins

Launch the season with sun-soaked trails and long days made for riding. Blend adventurous gravel bike routes with opportunities to cool off in remote ponds and soak in the wild beauty of the 100-Mile Wilderness. From free pack rafting excursions to live music and guided stargazing, it’s the perfect mix of action and relaxation.
Book Your Stay

2025 Summer Gravel Weekend Schedule
Friday, August 1

3:00 PM – Check-In
Guests are welcome to arrive earlier in the day to ride, relax, or explore the lodge grounds before check-in.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Lodge Happy Hour
Unwind and connect with fellow riders as you settle in for the weekend.

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Dinner
Enjoy a hearty lodge meal to kick off the weekend.

7:00 PM – 7:20 PM – AMC’s Maine Woods Initiative Presentation
Learn about AMC’s conservation work in the 100-Mile Wilderness and beyond. From trail maintenance to land protection, this work is what makes adventures like our gravel festivals possible.

7:20 PM – 8:20 PM – Where the Bike Takes You: Stories of Adventure
Joyful tales of where two wheels can lead.

Saturday, August 2

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast

10:00 AM – Group Gravel Rides Depart - Open to the public!
Ride Maine’s scenic gravel roads with support from the Bicycle Coalition of Maine and AMC guides.
Route Options
(elevation and terrain details to come)

Small: ~10 miles
Medium: ~30 miles

1:30 PM – Intro to Bike-Rafting with Packraft Maine
Experience multimodal travel in Maine’s wild waters with a guided, beginner-friendly bikerafting adventure led by Alejandro Strong.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Lodge Happy Hour

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Dinner

7:15 PM – 8:15 PM – Live Music by Ben Cosgrove
An immersive performance blending sound, storytelling, and the landscapes that inspire us.

8:15 PM – 9:15 PM – Skill Sharing: Fix a Bike with Bicycle Coalition of Maine
From flat tires to quick tune-ups, learn the basics to keep your adventure rolling.

9:00 PM – Stargazing in an International Dark Sky Park
Look up and explore the universe with astronomer John Meader.

Sunday, August 3

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast

10:00 AM – Final Group Gravel Rides
Put your skills to the test with longer rides guided by Bicycle Coalition of Maine and AMC leaders.
Route Options
(elevation and terrain details to come)
Medium: ~20 miles
Large: ~40 miles

1:30 PM – Extended Bikerafting Excursion with Packraft Maine
For those who joined Saturday’s intro or experienced paddlers looking for more, explore a longer, scenic route with Packraft Maine.

Check-Out
While you're encouraged to continue exploring throughout the day, please have your belongings out of your cabin by 11AM.

Equinox Gravel Weekend

September 19-21, 2025
Medawisla Lodge & Cabins

Celebrate the changing seasons with a weekend ride through crisp air, quiet trails, and early autumn color. As summer fades and fall takes hold, you'll explore remote gravel bike trails by day and gather fireside by night. With a mix of skill-building sessions, scenic group rides, and seasonal lodge comforts, this weekend is all about slowing down and connecting with the land.
Book Your Stay

Top Left Mainegravel 21
2025 Equinox Gravel Weekend Schedule

More info coming soon.

Three smiling people gravel biking on a wide trail in the woods.

Foliage Gravel Weekend

October 3-5, 2025
Gorman Chairback Lodge & Cabins

Ride into the heart of peak fall color on rugged trails framed by red, orange, and gold. This final gravel cycling event of the season offers a chance to savor the unmatched beauty of autumn in Maine. After a day on the bike, relax with hearty lodge meals, warm up in wood-fired saunas, and savor starlit skies to close out the season in style.
Book Your Stay

2025 Foliage Gravel Weekend Schedule

More info coming soon.

Get Gravel Ready

Prepare for an unforgettable experience at AMC’s Maine Gravel Cycling Weekends with these essential resources. Whether it’s your first gravel ride or your fiftieth, preparing for Maine’s remote terrain will set you up for a smoother, more joyful experience. Below you’ll find FAQs, a suggested packing list and helpful resources to guide your trip planning.

gravel bike with packs leaning on cabin
FAQs
Packing List
Resources on Gravel Biking

How do I register for the festival?
Registration is easy and free! Simply book your stay at the hosting lodge for the festival dates. During checkout, you’ll have the option to opt into Gravel Weekend — just check the box and submit the form to complete your registration.

Can I arrive before check-in?
Yes! Guests are welcome to arrive at any time during the day to ride and explore the property before checking in.

Are meals included?
Yes — your stay includes all meals: hearty breakfasts, trail lunches, and freshly prepared dinners served in the lodge.

Are there bike rentals?
Northwoods Outfitters in Greenville, Maine, offers bike rentals, plus any last-minute gear or clothing you might need.

Are e-bikes allowed?
Yes! E-bikes are welcome. Please note: motorcycles are prohibited on the roads to Lyford and Gorman Lodges.

Are there fees for using the roads?
Our gravel roads are open to the public for cycling! North Maine Woods charges a fee for cars and cyclists in the KI Jo-Mary Forest area. However, if you’re an overnight guest at an AMC lodge, your entry fees are waived — just be prepared to show a copy of your confirmation email at the gate.

Can I attend the festival for only one night?
No — a two-night minimum is required for festival bookings.

Is the event BYOB?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages! The lodge also offers alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for purchase. Please note: outside beverages are not permitted inside the lodge.

Do I need to be an experienced gravel rider to join?
Not at all! We welcome riders of all levels. Our routes range from smooth gravel paths to rugged trails, with options to challenge and excite every cyclist.

What kind of bike should I bring?
We recommend gravel bikes or sturdy cyclocross bikes with wider tires for comfort and control. Mountain bikes are also welcome! Note: tires under 35mm are not recommended.

What should I pack?
See the "Packing List" tab.

What happens if it rains?
We ride rain or shine! Maine weather can be unpredictable, so pack your rain gear. Safety is always our top priority, and if conditions become unsafe, we’ll adjust plans as needed.

Can I bring friends or family who aren’t riding?
Absolutely! Non-riders are welcome to enjoy the natural surroundings, utilize lodge amenities, join evening activities, or just relax and soak in the scenery.

Is there cell service and Wi-Fi?
No — and that’s part of the charm! Our Maine lodges are off-grid, offering a true unplugged experience. Cell service is available a short drive away if needed.

How can I become a sponsor?
If you’re interested in sponsoring this year’s event, please reach out to our Brand Partner Manager, Paige LeFrancois, at [email protected].

Our Maine lodges are located in a remote location with limited access to outside resources. Ensure a seamless weekend by coming prepared with:

  • Bike (tires under 35mm not recommended)
  • Saddle bag with tools / flat kid (spare tube, pump, patch kit or plugs, tire lever, valve core remover if tubeless)
  • Cycling clothing
  • Nutrition for ride, and snacks in general
  • GPS devices or charged phone - make sure to download routes from AMC's Ride With GPS before you head to Maine as reception is limited and WiFi is not available
  • Cycling shoes
  • Sunglasses
  • Bike lights + charger
  • Water bottles
  • Sunscreen
  • Rain Coat

Gravel biking in the Maine Woods is more than a weekend—it’s a growing movement built on exploration, conservation, and community. Whether you're planning a longer stay or just want to learn more about the region’s expanding trail network, these guides and stories have you covered.

Plan Your Trip

Get inspired by our recommended Lodge-to-Lodge Gravel Biking in Maine Itinerary—a multi-day gravel route connecting AMC’s Maine lodges. It’s perfect for early arrivals, extended stays, or alternate ride options throughout the weekend.
Explore the Itinerary

Gravel Cycling Community
Amc Maine Woods Gravel Adventue Field Guide Cover 1
Get the Guide

Pick up the Maine Woods Gravel Adventure Field Guide, featuring curated ride routes, local tips, trail insights, and stunning visuals—created in partnership with the team at Gravel Adventure Field Guide.
Buy Now

Experience the Ride

Get a taste of the terrain, vibe, and views in this short film showcasing AMC’s growing gravel network and what makes riding in the Maine Woods so special.
Watch the Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Cx2aDQ7Nt8
Read More

Maine Promotes Gravel Cycling – Outside Magazine
Discover how AMC and partners are turning the Maine Woods into a premiere gravel cycling destination.

Behind the Guide: Gravel Adventure Field Guide Launch
Learn how AMC helped shape the future of gravel cycling in the region and what it means for conservation and recreation access.

Gravel Adventure Field Guide: Official Maine Page
Explore additional ride options, maps, and behind-the-scenes stories from the guide’s creators.

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The Appalachian Mountain Club is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 04-6001677) under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. AMC operates under several special permits and leases, including in the White Mountain National Forest, New York Palisades Interstate Park Commission, and New Hampshire State Parks.

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