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Trail Status Updates 8.1.24
Widowmaker Extension, Jackpot, Rookie River, Crusher DH, Rock Lobster from Peavy X-Cut down, Upper 355 from the summit, and Spare Time (beginner/intermediate flow loop) are open. Whiffletree area Bike Park trail construction is in progress - Please respect all closures and use caution around equipment and trail crew staff. See below for additional information.
Cross Country Mountain Biking
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Trails for all levels
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No Trail Fees
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Over 80 miles of riding
Thanks to the efforts of the Town of Carrabassett Valley, and the Carrabassett Region Chapter of the New England Mountain Bike Association (CRNEMBA), mountain bike trail development has taken off in recent years, with a network of world-class cross-country trails, originating at the base of the mountain and spanning more than 80 miles throughout the valley.
- Parking and trail access is available at the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center, the Stratton Brook trailhead parking lot, and Airport trailhead (located behind the SugarBowl).
- During the summer, bike rentals are available from several area shops, including the onsite bike shop at the Outdoor Center.
The Carrabassett Valley area has a variety of trails that fall into the "cross country" category:
- Machine-built trails designed as flowy paths through the woods with banked turns; built by machines along with strategic use of natural features.
- Narrow, hand-built trails. These trails are not enhanced in anyway with rocks, roots, and all the natural features you would naturally experience while enjoying the outdoors are present.
- Tread trails are sections of trail built on existing Nordic Cross-country trails which reflect a smooth gravel surface.
- Nordic Trails: The Sugarloaf Outdoor Center has 60km of cross-country skiing in the winter which also serve as biking trails during the summer months. These trails are relatively "smooth" although vary in difficulty due to elevation changes throughout the network.
Gravity Trail Information
Trailforks
Follow Trailforks for most recent trail statuses at https://www.trailforks.com/region/sugarloaf-mountain-resort//. Always check the site before riding.
Parking
Parking is in Lot C for all MTB access. No vehicle access or parking on Mountainside Road, Willow Drive, or West Mountain Road.
Trails
For 2024, we have a new small flow loop, “Spare Time”, for beginner/intermediate skill building. Located 1/2 miles from Sugarloaf Mountain's main base area, between the Dog Walking Trail and West Branch.
Our mellowest gravity trail (though still quite challenging) is Lower Rock Lobster, accessed by climbing Boardwalk.
For experts, Widowmaker Extension, Jackpot, Rookie River, Rock Lobster, and Crusher DH will be open for riding this season. Widowmaker, Jackpot, and Rookie are accessed by climbing up Lower Whiffletree to Crosshaul to King Pine, and then Tohaul to the top of Whiffletree. Upper Rock Lobster and Crusher DH are accessed by climbing up Whiffletree, Crosshaul, taking a right on Condo Crosscut to Peavy Crosscut, Tote Crosscut, and Spurline.
After descending Widowmaker Extension, riders can return to the base area or Outdoor Center trail system via Condo Crosscut, Lower Stub's, and Lower Widowmaker trail.
Please follow MTB route signs posted on the mountain for access and respect all signage, including stopping at all road crossings. The work roads on the mountain are active and vehicles may be present at all times.
Trail Closures
Electric Bike Rules
Class 1 E-MTB's are welcome on the mountain. Please use only the posted MTB routes. The Binder Work Road is closed to all public traffic, this road is VERY busy with work vehicles. Please respect this closure.
Exciting Future Plans
2024 marks the official start of the Whiffletree area Bike Park trail construction with plans for an early Summer 2025 opening. The trail crew is growing and we'll have multiple pieces of equipment working around the Whiffletree area. Please respect all closures and use caution around equipment and trail crew staff.
The crew looks forward to showing you all their hard work!
NOTICE: there is currently no lift-serviced mountain biking available at Sugarloaf. Riders are to access the new trails by foot or pedal power only. Personal vehicles and ATVs are not permitted on the mountain at any time.
Rider parking is available in Lot C.
Gravel Riding
The Narrow Gauge pathway on the north side of route 27 and across the Carrabassett River is a 6 mile long multi-use pathway that extends from just above the Sugarloaf access road down to the Carrabassett Valley Town park. This is a flat, smooth, and low impact trail which is perfect for families and those who just want to enjoy a ride along the river. There are multiple mountain bike trails that spur off the Narrow Gauge pathway so please consult the region's mountain bike trail map for more accurate information.
Suggested Rides
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Trail 110
Jabba the Hut
Jabba the Hut mixes intermediate single track with wider cross country trails, making it the perfect introduction to more advanced terrain for new riders. Jabba can be accessed from the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center network.
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Trail 103
Moose Bog Loop
Moose Bog Loop is the perfect introductory ride to mountain biking in Carrabassett Valley. Trail 103 circumnavigates the pond at the Outdoor Center, featuring mellow terrain and stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the Crockers.
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Trails 206 & 212
Crockertown & Jerusalem Town
Both Crocker Town (Trail 206) and Jerusalem Town (Trail 212) are accessed from the Narrow Gauge pathway and offer a fun introduction to single track terrain for novice/intermediate riders.
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Trail 205
Meade
Accessed from the Narrow Gauge Trail, this sandy, gentle meander along the river is a great family ride with plenty of spots to rest and take in the view.
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Trail 200
Narrow Gauge Pathway
Following the route of the former railroad, the Narrow Gauge pathway offers a wide double-track for novice and intermediate riders looking to explore more of the Carrabassett trail network. The trail meanders along the Carrabassett River for approximately 6 miles with a gradual grade.
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Rentals
Sugarloaf Bike Shop
Sugarloaf operates a full-service bike shop out of the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center, featuring tuning, repairs, retail items, and equipment.
Bike rentals are available Wednesday - Sun (9am - 5pm)
- Full Day $119.00 (9-5)
- Half Day $79.00 (Walk in only after 12:30pm)
Upcoming Mountain Bike Events
Enduro & Downhill Video Recap
Resources & Partners
Nearby Local Bike Shops
Northern Lights Hearth & Sports
Carrabassett Region NEMBA: A non-profit organization dedicated to the creation and maintenance of a sustainable multi-use trail network in the western mountains of Maine.
Maine Huts & Trails: A non-profit organization managing a system of four backcountry eco-lodges and more than 80 miles of trails in Western Maine.
Trail Forks: Plan, explore and share your ride.