Opportunities for cyclists continue to grow

The secret is out. The County’s beautiful landscapes are a sight to behold while riding a bicycle.
National and international bicycling enthusiasts are becoming acquainted with cycling opportunities both through the marketing efforts of Aroostook County Tourism (ACT) and from unsolicited articles being written about the region.
In the May 2007 issue of US Airways Magazine, an article entitled “Maine: Best for Biking”, describes the three premier spots in the state to enjoy this sport as being Acadia National Park, Grafton Notch State Park, and Aroostook County. In the Rails to Trails conservancy guide book and website, Aroostook County’s multi use trail system is identified as a wonderful opportunity to take a multi day trip to enjoy the scenery and wildlife, and describes the regions ATV riders as being the “most polite in the state,” towards cyclists. Adventure Cyclist Magazine will have advertisements placed by ACT, touting the unique opportunities of the region all summer long.
So, what are these opportunities and where would someone find out about them? Whether you are into road biking or mountain biking, an expert cyclist or just beginning the opportunities abound county wide. According to Tom Chasse, the vice president of the Nordic Heritage Sports Club, the opportunities for cyclists continue to grow with new events being developed each year. You can start mountain biking at the Maine Winter Sports facility in Fort Kent to ride the multi-use trails along the St. John River towards the town of Allagash or you can ride the twenty four miles of single track mountain biking trails designed by the International Mountain Bike Association in Presque Isle. You can participate in one of the many road races like the Tour De Valley or take a leisure ride to view some of the most breathtaking sights of Mt. Katahdin.
Starting in July, free downloadable maps of bike routes will be available at www.visitaroostook.com .
Celebrating the Crown of Maine’s many assets, is just one of the strategies of ACT’s marketing efforts as outlined in the regions “Five Year Tourism Business Plan,” which can be viewed at www.nmdc.org. Tourism helps the economy by attracting visitors who enjoy our beautiful surroundings while also experiencing the wonderful hospitality put forth by the regions merchants, restaurants, and lodging establishments.
If you see someone this summer out for a ride or walking on the street that you don’t recognize, be an ambassador for the County. It is important that they feel welcome so they go home and tell their family and friends about the wonderful experience to be had here in Aroostook County.
    David Spooner is the Business and Tourism Development Specialist with Northern Maine Development Commission in Caribou. He can be reached 498-8736 or online at dspooner@nmdc.org