FAQS
Where is the event venue and how do I get my bib?
All routes start and finish at Southern Maine Community College (SMCC), 2 Fort Rd, South Portland, ME 04106. Parking is available. Event Packets may be picked up from the ride venue on Friday, September 12 from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm or Saturday, September 13 from 6:00 am - 8:00 am. RIDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO PICK UP ON FRIDAY. Your packet will include a goody bag, bib number, pins, your meal ticket and beer bracelet. All registered riders will receive a map of the Southern Maine Community College campus indicating parking, packet pick up, and start/finish line are located.
What is the “Become a Fundraiser” registration option?
By selecting the “Become a Fundraiser” option at checkout, you can rally your friends and family to support not only the cost of your registration but additional funds to support the Eastern Trail, southern Maine’s premiere multi-use greenway. Simply register for the ride and choose the fundraising option. You will be guided through setting up your own fundraiser that can be shared with your contacts.
What’s the Eastern Trail?
The Eastern Trail is southern Maine’s premiere multi-use active transportation and recreation greenway. The Maine Lighthouse Ride is the signature fundraising event benefiting the Eastern Trail Alliance, a nonprofit organization that builds, maintains, and promotes the Eastern Trail. All of the routes incorporate some segments of the Eastern Trail. Visit easterntrail.org to learn more.
When will the ride start and how long will it take me to finish?
Riders will depart the start line in waves and finish based on route distance, time spent lingering at various stops, and ability. Below are estimates based on previous years.
100-mil ride: Start time 7:00 am | 7-10 hours
62-mile ride: Start time 7:30 am | 6-7 hours
40-mile ride: Start time 8:00 am | 4-5 hours
25-mile ride: Start time 8:30 am | 2-4 hours
What’s the best bike for this ride?
The best bike for this ride is most likely the best bike for you! This is primarily a road ride on paved public roads open to traffic. All of the routes include travel on six-mile narrow paved path and the 40, 60, 10-mile routes include a three-mile gravel segment, traversed twice. The gravel surface is suitable for most riders on road bikes; stay alert and proceed with caution.
Can I rent a bike?
We will announce our rental bike company partner soon!
Are e-bikes allowed?
We welcome Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes. We ask that you choose a route that is suitable for your bike and have a fully charged battery the day of the event.
What’s the terrain like?
All routes for the Maine Lighthouse Ride include a narrow off-road paved path and public roads open to traffic. The 40, 62, and 100-mile routes include a three-mile fine gravel section (traversed twice). This gravel section is suitable for most riders on road bikes.
How can I avoid the gravel section?
If you would prefer to avoid the gravel section, you have two options:
1. Register for the 25-mile ride.
2. Register for the 40-mile ride and skip the out and back section that crosses the Scarborough Marsh near Black Point Road. Here’s how: When Highland Ave intersects with Black Point Rd (ME Route 207) take a left instead of the planned right. This will allow you to continue to Ferry Beach without traversing the three-mile gravel section twice. Be advised this will make your 40-mile ride shorter.
Are there rest stops?
Yes! Our rest stops are well stocked with water and lots of food options, including granola and protein bars, fruit, PB&J sandwiches, pickles, and more. All the fun stuff to fuel you to a strong finish! The rest stops are located in the following areas: Ferry Beach (40, 62), Kettle Cove (all routes), Old Orchard Beach (62, 100), Kennebunkport (100), and Fortunes Rocks (100).
Is there a post-ride celebration?
Yes! Join other riders and their guests, plus the Eastern Trail Alliance staff, Board of Directors, and partners from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the event venue – Southern Maine Community College – for a delicious post-ride meal. Riders will enjoy a meal and two complimentary beers. Food and beverages will be available for purchase for non-rider guests.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
We will work to accommodate your requests, please email us at MLR@easterntrail.org.
How can I participate if the registration fee does not fit into my budget this year?
We welcome your participation. Please consider the “Become a Fundraiser” registration option. By selecting the “Become a Fundraiser” option at checkout, you can rally your friends and family to contribute to your registration fee and, if desirable, raise additional funds for the Eastern Trail too! Simply register and choose the fundraiser option. The online process will guide you to creating your own fundraiser to share for ease of collecting donations on your behalf. Funds raised will go towards your registration fee, covering your cost to participation, and any additional funds will benefit the Eastern Trail Alliance. If you have questions, please contact us at MLR@easterntrail.org.
Is this ride supported?
We have a wonderful crew of Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles to provide support as needed, and stock supplies at each rest stop as well as home base on the campus of Southern Maine Community College. In addition, we strongly encourage riders to carry their own equipment to change flats.
What is the refund policy? Is the ride rain or shine?
The Maine Lighthouse Ride is a rain or shine event. If the ride or a portion of the ride is unsafe for riders, we may alter the course/route or transfer riders to another course/route. We do not offer refunds.
Can I transfer my registration?
Yes. You can transfer your registration through the Run Sign Up system or simply email us at MLR@easterntrail.org and we will assist.
Can I switch routes?
Of course! You may switch between any of the routes via the Run Sign Up site. If you need help or have questions, please email us at MLR@easterntrail.org.
Can I register onsite the day of the ride?
Yes, however, we will be limiting the number of riders and we typically sell out prior to the ride date. If we have not yet sold out, we will take onsite registration the date of the ride. Please note, the registration fee increases to $160 starting September 1st. We strongly encourage you not to wait if you want to ride the 2025 Maine Lighthouse Ride.
Do you have a block of hotel rooms reserved?
As we secure hotel room blocks, we will include them here.
Questions?
Any questions? We’d be happy to help. Contact us at MLR@easterntrail.org.
