FAQS
Where is the event venue and how do I get my bib?
All rides start and finish at Southern Maine Community College (SMCC), 2 Fort Rd, South Portland, ME 04106. Ample parking is available for riders and others.
Event Packets may be picked up from the ride venue on Friday, September 6 from 4:00pm - 7:00pm or Saturday, September 7 from 6:00am - 8:00am. RIDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO PICK UP ON FRIDAY. Your packet will include bib number, pins, your meal ticket and beer bracelet, plus a t-shirt and/or hoodie, if previously purchased or received as a giveaway.
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 great 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. More information is available here.
When will the ride start and how long will it take me to finish?
Riders will depart the start line in waves based on route length with 100-mile riders taking off first at 7:00am, 62 Miles at 7:30am, 40 Miles at 8:00am, and 25 Miles at 8:30am.
We estimate the following time ranges to finish based on routes and ability:
100-mile ride: 7 to 10 hours
62-mile ride: 6 to 7 hours
40-mile ride: 4 to 5 hours
25-mile ride: 2 to 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 a mixed-surface ride that includes narrow paved pathways, some gravel, and lots of public paved roads open to traffic. The gravel surface is suitable for road bikes; be prepared to adjust your speed accordingly.
Can I rent a bike?
We are pleased to be partnering with Gorham Bike & Ski for all of your bike needs. Bikes will be brought to the starting location and picked up at the end of the ride. To learn more and to reserve your bike, visit HERE.
What about e-bikes?
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 on-road and off-road sections including a narrow off-road paved pathway and public roads open to traffic. The 100, 62, and 40 mile ride include a three mile section (traversed twice) where riders will bike on a gravel surface which is suitable for road bikes traveling at 10 mph. The remainder of the ride is on a paved surface.
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 3-mile gravel section twice. Be advised this will turn your 40-mile ride into 36 miles.
Are there rest stops?
Yes! Many and 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, 100), 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 12:00pm - 5:00 pm at the event venue – Southern Maine Community College – for a delicious post-ride meal. Riders will enjoy a meal from Pepper's Landing Food Truck and two complimentary beers from Shipyard Brewing Company. 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 which is why this year for the first time, we have created a “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. The money raised will go towards your registration fee, covering your cost and supporting the Eastern Trail. If you have questions, please contact us at MLR@easterntrail.org.
Is this ride supported? Will there be ride marshals?
We will have a wonderful crew who serve as SAG wagons riding the courses to assist. We also have some supplies at each rest stop and on the campus of Southern Maine Community College (start and finish). We have an emergency number for you to call should you need help on any course! Please call 207.284.9260.
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. We strongly encourage you not to wait if you want to ride the 2024 Maine Lighthouse Ride.
Do you have a block of hotel rooms reserved?
We do not have a block of hotel rooms reserved for the MLR. However, the South Portland area offers a wide range of hotels, motels, and campsites. We encourage you to visit www.visitportland.com for information.
Questions?
Any questions? We’d be happy to help. Contact us at MLR@easterntrail.org
