This section passes through three states, each with somewhat different riding conditions, but the roads generally are fair. Vermont and New Hampshire are "mountainous" by eastern standards. General elevation ranges from about 500 to 2,000 feet. Vermont highways are, with a few exceptions, well-signed. East of Middlebury, Vermont, you have to pedal over a steep "gap" or mountain pass. After you reach the White Mountains and enter Maine, the elevation is generally less than 500 feet but the terrain is still quite hilly. Near the coast the route follows narrow back roads. However, in places you ride U.S. 1 which carries very heavy recreational traffic. Mount Desert Island roads also have a high amount of tourist traffic as you near Bar Harbor during the summer and fall color season.
We utilized part of Map 11, from Ticonderoga, NY to East Thetford, VT. We needed to do our own route to get to Portsmouth, NH. While we enjoyed this section, absolutely loving every bit of Vermont, we did go off route to camp at Branbury State Park, and took Brandon's Gap instead of Middlebury Gap. Vermont's drivers are some of the best in the country, so courteous and kind. Accurate routing and map.
Northern Tier Section 11
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Jack Lawless on 1/17/18
In planning my cycling tour across Canada and parts of the U.S., my only concern was tackling the Adirondaks efficiently. I was very comfortable with the information gathered on cycling the Erie Canal, but how was I to get from Albany through the mountains and on to Nova Scotia.
The Tier 11 map provided the answers to all my questions. Clearly illustrated maps in ‘bite sized’ sections, elevation data that I considered indispensable. Notes on accommodations, attractions, Bike Shops. It was all here!
Thank you Adventure Cycling Association!
Northern Tier Bar Harbor/Ticonderoga
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Andrew Smethurst on 9/2/16
I am a "born again" bicyclist and have just joined the ACA. I am, however, very familiar with the Downeast area of Maine and was disappointed to see the routes from Bar Harbor to Brunswick pretty much followed Rte3 and then Rte1. These are heavily trafficked roads and I wouldn't voluntarily cycle on them, especially if doing so for pleasure. Cars, trucks whizzing by at 50mph is not conducive to a relaxed ride.
I liked the format and quality of the map and will be buying more of the Northern Tier set. Just a little disappointed about the unimaginative choice of route out of Maine,
Northern Tier Section 11
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Steven Hill on 7/9/12
I rode from Anacotes WA to Palmyra NY in 2009. These maps are abosolutely the best !! These maps ensure good roads and take the "gamble" out of finding a place to camp for the night. The only time I got "lost" was when I thought I saw a better route than was on the map !!
Steve Hill, now living in Vermilion Ohio
Wrong Bridge
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Armand Gonsoulin on 9/8/11
We had problems getting back into the country from Niagara Falls, Canada. The bridge that was shown on the map, was not bike friendly. The border people didn't like us crossing at that point and suggested you all change it to the Rainbow bridge.
Too much information?!
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Terra Curtis on 9/3/09
This map was quite good; always full of information on what town's have to offer and also leads you on great cycling roads when there are alternatives to the higher-trafficked routes. However, they are tough to use while cycling. Sometimes there are so many (minor) turns labeled (like when a road name changes or when the road bends left but still stays the same name), that we often had to stop to consult the map when we easily could have just rolled on through. I'm not sure what better format you could use, but something more on-the-go friendly would be great.
Northern Tier Map Review
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Jim Davis on 6/11/09
The maps are very detailed, with clear and concise directions. I especially appreciate the fact the dirctions and turn distances are provided both from west to east, as well as east to west.
My trip is planned for 7/1 through 7/26, and I would be glad to discuss specific details upon my return.
Best regards,
Jim