Last updated: March 11, 2024
Thing to Do
Bike the Upper East Branch Loop
NPS photo / Rebecca Wang
Distance: 4.5 mi/7.2 km
Difficulty: Easy
Bike a 4.5 mile loop starting at the North Entrance to the monument off of Grand Lake Road. Follow signs to the Upper East Branch picnic area and Oxbow Road. This route takes you along the scenic East Branch of the Penobscot River, passing the Upper East Branch campsite. There is only a 59ft elevation change on this route, making it a easy ride.
Looking for a picnic spot? Consider making a short detour off the loop to the Oxbow Picnic Area for a beautiful view of the river. This route is shared with motor vehicle traffic.
Difficulty: Easy
Bike a 4.5 mile loop starting at the North Entrance to the monument off of Grand Lake Road. Follow signs to the Upper East Branch picnic area and Oxbow Road. This route takes you along the scenic East Branch of the Penobscot River, passing the Upper East Branch campsite. There is only a 59ft elevation change on this route, making it a easy ride.
Looking for a picnic spot? Consider making a short detour off the loop to the Oxbow Picnic Area for a beautiful view of the river. This route is shared with motor vehicle traffic.
Details
Activity
Biking
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
All pets must be on leash within the monument. Refer to the pets information page for more information.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Pay attention to the monument Current Conditions page for most current road conditions and closures.
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
The roads and trail surfaces at Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument are not paved. The surface of the loop consists of rocks, gravel, mud, and potholes. Be alert when biking on the road, it is shared with motor vehicles. This road is not recommended for people with limited vision, limited mobility, or slow reaction times. The current ebike policy for the park is listed in the Superintendent’s Compendium.