Biking on the carriage roads in Acadia

Question

I was planning on renting e-bikes for our family but I am only 4'11" and it said you have to be 5 ft at least to rent. How difficult are the carriage roads if we just rent regular bikes? We will vary in age from 16 to a young 79. Are they hilly?

Answer

Biking on the carriage roads in Acadia National Park is a fantastic way to explore the park's stunning natural beauty. The roads are mostly smooth, well-maintained, and car-free, making them a great option for cyclists of varying skill levels and ages. That said, your question about the difficulty of the roads with regular bikes, especially for a group with varying ages, is very valid.

Carriage Roads and Their Terrain:

Overall Terrain: The carriage roads in Acadia are designed for horse-drawn carriages, which means they’re generally wide and smooth. They are primarily made of crushed gravel and are much easier to ride on than rough trails or mountain biking paths. That said, while they aren’t rough or highly technical, they do have some gradual inclines, and there are a few areas that can feel more challenging.
Hills: While the roads are not particularly steep or difficult overall, there are some hills, especially as you head toward more scenic overlooks or higher points in the park. However, the grades are not extreme, and most people, including families, can manage the hills with regular bikes.
Difficulty for Different Ages: Since you’re traveling with a mixed group ranging from a 16-year-old to a 79-year-old, the difficulty will largely depend on fitness level and stamina. The younger or more active members of the group should have no trouble at all, but for the older members, it's a good idea to take it slow, especially on inclines.

Regular Bikes vs. E-Bikes:

Regular Bikes: The carriage roads are perfectly manageable with regular bikes. If everyone in your group is in good health and has basic cycling skills, you should be fine. If your family members are more comfortable with a slower pace, you can easily stop and rest at any of the scenic points along the route.
E-Bikes: While e-bikes are a great option for making the ride easier, especially on the hilly sections, if you're limited by height requirements, regular bikes should still provide an enjoyable and manageable experience. Plus, e-bikes may not be necessary for everyone in your group—if you’re cycling with more active individuals, regular bikes will still be a fun way to explore without feeling too challenging.

Recommendations:

For the 79-year-old: If you're concerned about the 79-year-old member of the group, it’s a good idea to take frequent breaks. The carriage roads have plenty of scenic stops where you can rest, hydrate, and enjoy the views. They can always go at their own pace, and there are no rush—just enjoy the ride!
Family-Friendly Routes: For a relaxed ride with stunning views, consider starting with some of the flatter routes like the Jordan Pond area or the Eagle Lake loop. These are some of the most popular and scenic sections of the carriage roads and tend to be less hilly.
Take Your Time: The beauty of the carriage roads is that they’re easy to navigate, and the speed of the ride is entirely up to you. Plan a leisurely day, take breaks, and stop for photos. The park’s scenery, from lakes to forests to mountain views, is truly worth savoring.

Conclusion:

The carriage roads in Acadia are definitely manageable on regular bikes for a group with mixed fitness levels and ages. While there are some gradual hills, they aren't overly steep, and with a leisurely pace, everyone should be able to enjoy the ride. If your family has any concerns, e-bikes are a great backup option, but regular bikes will still allow you to experience the park’s beauty at a relaxed pace.