E-Bike Adventures in Acadia: Hills, Thrills, and Spills

Kim Martinez
Jun 7
3 min read

Updated: Jun 29

Thanks to the deep pockets and grand vision of John D. Rockefeller Jr. (1913-1940), Acadia National Park boasts over 45 miles of glorious Carriage Roads—perfect for biking, hiking, and the occasional confused horse. These scenic paths wind around lakes, up mountains, and through forests, offering stunning views without the hassle of dodging cars. And let’s not forget the historic stone bridges—some dating back to the 1920s—that make you feel like you’re biking through a postcard.

The E-Bike Brigade

We brought our own e-bikes, but my son and grandson rented theirs from Island Time Bike Rentals. Pro tip: Opt for Hull Cove Visitor Center pickup—super convenient. They got a quick tutorial, strapped on helmets (safety first, unless you enjoy concussions), and within minutes, we were on the Carriage Roads.

The Nitty-Gritty

Entry: National Park Pass (because nature isn’t free, folks).

Hull Cove Visitor Center: Grab a map here—unless you enjoy getting lost and blaming your family. (Bonus: warm-up Climb 52 steps up the visitor’s center to claim the map)

Trail Signs: They’re everywhere and match the map perfectly. Still, someone in our group (“cough” not naming names) managed to pedal off in the wrong direction. Pro tip: Establish meeting spots or just tie a leash to the overeager biker in your group.

The Ride: Ups, Downs, and Wildlife Encounters

The trails: Gorgeous. The elevation changes? Brutal. Thankfully, e-bikes exist, because otherwise, I’d still be halfway up a mountain, weeping softly. The paths are wide (16 feet!)—plenty of room to pass hikers, dogs, and the occasional wild turkey that darted in front of me like it had a death wish. I also spotted what might’ve been a mink, but by then, my group had abandoned me to enjoy nature at my own (slow) pace.

E-Bike Perks (and Pitfalls)

Let’s be real—25 miles of Acadia’s hills on a regular bike is for masochists. We smugly cruised past traditional bikers (hating them just a little) until reality hit: battery drain. My bike went from "full power" to "please, God, no" in record time. Suddenly, I was pedaling what felt like a concrete-filled wheelbarrow to conserve the 2 bars I had remaining.

Meanwhile, my son—who used “Turbo mode” like it was an unlimited resource—learned the hard way that batteries don’t last forever. His bike died three hills from the finish line, turning his leisurely ride into an impromptu energy zapping workout. Lesson learned: Check. Your. Charge.

Survival Tips

Bug spray: Unless you enjoy donating blood to Acadia’s mosquito population.

Water & snacks: Jordan Pond House is the only food spot, and good luck getting in. Pack a picnic, but don’t expect benches—bridge walls double as dining tables.

Battery management: If your bike has an eco-mode, use it when you can Or bring a spare battery. Or just accept your fate.

Final Thoughts:

Acadia’s Carriage Roads are stunning—lakes, waterfalls, and mountain views that make you forget your legs are screaming. We lucked out with fewer crowds. If possible I highly suggest trying to get to Acadia May 16-June 7 or post-Labor Day. The Carriage trails are extremely popular.