Discover Old Canada Road Route 201: A Scenic Adventure Through Maine's Wilderness
Region: Kennebec and Moose River Valley
Length: 78 miles
Travel Time: 3 hours (or a full day to fully enjoy the stops and activities)
The Old Canada Road Scenic Byway (U.S. Route 201) offers one of the most breathtaking and historical drives in Maine, taking you from Solon all the way to the Canadian border near Jackman. This 78-mile route winds through the Kennebec and Moose River Valley, offering pristine wilderness views, river and lake panoramas, and countless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
From quaint towns steeped in history to adrenaline-pumping activities like whitewater rafting, the Old Canada Road is a journey that combines the tranquility of nature with the thrill of adventure. Let’s dive into the must-see attractions, outdoor activities, and hidden gems that make this drive a unique experience for all travelers. Discover Old Canada Road Route 201 for sightseeing and wilderness adventure.
Highlights Along the Old Canada Road
1. The Forks: Whitewater Rafting Paradise
At the confluence of the Kennebec and Dead Rivers, The Forks is the heart of outdoor adventure in the region. Known for some of the best whitewater rafting in the eastern United States, this area attracts adrenaline-seekers who come to tackle the thrilling rapids of the Kennebec River Gorge or the Dead River’s longer runs.
Activities: Whitewater rafting, camping, hiking
Outfitters: Several local companies offer guided rafting tours, including Northwoods Outfitters
Other Attractions: Scenic river views, wildlife watching
2. Wyman Lake
Stretching for more than 14 miles along the route, Wyman Lake is a manmade reservoir offering spectacular water views and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for boating, canoeing, and kayaking, with several picnic areas and swimming spots dotting its shoreline.
Activities: Boating, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing
Notable Spots: Lakeside picnic areas, boat launches along Route 201
For those looking to stretch their legs and explore the area by foot or bike, the Solon-Bingham Rail Trail is a must-visit. This scenic, multi-use trail runs along an old rail line and provides stunning views of the Kennebec River and the surrounding forests. Whether you're into bicycling, hiking, or just enjoying a peaceful walk in nature, this trail offers something for everyone.
Activities: Bicycling, hiking, walking
Trail Length: Approximately 14 miles (between Solon and Bingham)
4. Wyman Dam
Just north of Bingham, take a short detour to visit the Wyman Dam, which controls the flow of water into Wyman Lake. The dam, built in the 1930s, provides a fascinating look at hydroelectric power in action and offers impressive views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Activities: Scenic viewing, photography, fishing
Notable Spots: Observation points near the dam
5. Bingham: A Town Steeped in History
The town of Bingham offers a glimpse into Maine’s storied past. As you drive through, you'll notice classic clapboard homes and historic buildings dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting the town's former prominence during the lumber boom. Take a moment to stop and explore the town's charm.
Activities: Historic walking tours, shopping, dining
Notable Spots: Bingham Free Meetinghouse, downtown Bingham
6. Moxie Falls
One of Maine’s highest waterfalls, Moxie Falls, is just a short drive from The Forks. A moderate hike of about one mile leads you to the 90-foot waterfall, a stunning sight as water plunges into a gorge below. This makes for a perfect side trip, especially for nature lovers and photographers.
Activities: Hiking, waterfall viewing, picnicking
Trail Length: 1 mile one-way
Notable Spots: Moxie Falls Scenic Area
Activities and Outdoor Recreation Along Route 201
Hiking and Nature Trails
The Old Canada Road offers plenty of opportunities for hikers to explore the natural beauty of the Kennebec and Moose River Valley. From short scenic walks to more challenging climbs, there's a trail for every skill level.
Appalachian Trail: The world-famous Appalachian Trail crosses the byway, offering ambitious hikers the chance to trek through some of the region’s most rugged terrain.
Other Trails: Moxie Falls Trail, & Pleasant Pond Mountain Trail
Wildlife Viewing
Keep your eyes peeled for moose, deer, and even bald eagles along the byway. The remote nature of this route provides ample opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
Notable Spots: Wyman Lake, The Forks, and the Moose River Valley are prime areas for moose sightings.
Snowmobiling and Winter Sports
In the winter months, the Old Canada Road transforms into a snowmobiler's paradise. The byway offers direct access to Maine’s Interconnected Trail System (ITS), connecting riders to hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails throughout the state.
Popular Snowmobiling Trails: ITS 87, ITS 86
Other Winter Activities: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing
Side Trips Off the Old Canada Road
Located in Madison, just south of Solon, Lakewood Theater is one of the oldest continuously operating summer theaters in the United States. Visitors can catch a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts, in this historic venue that dates back to 1901.
Activities: Live performances, dining
Notable Spots: Lakewood Theater, Lakewood Inn Restaurant
As the meeting point for the Kennebec and Dead Rivers, The Forks offers a unique side trip for water enthusiasts. Besides rafting, you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in the surrounding waterways.
Activities: Whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, fishing
Notable Spots: Kennebec River Gorge, Dead River
The Appalachian Trail crosses Route 201 near Caratunk, offering a great opportunity to hike a portion of this legendary trail. For a challenging yet rewarding hike, consider taking the Pleasant Pond Mountain Trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Activities: Hiking, backpacking, photography
Trailheads: Near Caratunk and Pleasant Pond
Scenic Stops and Picnic Areas
Just north of Solon, the Robbins Hill Scenic Overlook offers sweeping views of the Kennebec River Valley and surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot to pull over, enjoy a picnic, and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Activities: Scenic viewing, picnicking, photography
Notable Spots: Robbins Hill Scenic Area
A detour off the byway near The Forks takes you to Moxie Bald Mountain, where a moderately strenuous hike rewards adventurers with stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. On clear days, you can see all the way to Mount Katahdin.
Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, photography
Trail Length: 5.2 miles round-trip
Notable Spots: Moxie Bald Mountain summit
Final Thoughts
The Old Canada Road offers more than just a scenic drive—it’s a journey through history, wilderness, and adventure. Whether you’re rafting down the Kennebec River, enjoying a peaceful day on Wyman Lake, or exploring historic towns like Bingham, this route is an unforgettable experience for all travelers. Take your time, enjoy the views, and discover the magic of Maine’s rugged and beautiful Kennebec and Moose River Valley.
What to Do in Moosehead Lake
Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.
Boating: Explore the lake's serene waters.
Hiking: Explore the the wilderness.
Fishing: Discover prime fishing spots.
Camping: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.
Local Attractions: Learn about must-see sights in the region.
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit
Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
For more information on the Old Canada Road and nearby activities, visit VisitMaine.com.