Saco River - Weston's Beach to Swan's Falls

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This paddle consists of three beautiful meanderings along a slow section of the Saco River.  There is a portage around Swan Falls Dam if continuing on.
Trail Activity
Paddling
Length
3.40 miles, One Way
Difficulty
Easy
Town
Fryeburg
Surface
Water - River/Stream
Pets
Permitted
Fees
Yes

Description

The route involves three large, mostly slow, meanderings along the Saco River. There are many georgeous views to be had along the way. The one exception to the slow water is Walker's Rips, Class I. These rapids speed up in high water but are still very doable for the average paddler.

After the first river curve there is a small stream; just beyond there is a channel that may be passable during high water conditions, but is not recommended during mid-to late summer.

Swan's Falls Dam is located just past the take-out point. Please use caution: use the take-out on the right bank of the river to portage the around dam if continuing down the river.

  • Know the river conditions. During high water conditions, weak or non-swimmers and small children should not use the river.  Life vests should be worn at all times.
  • All land is privately owned. Do not stop along properties marked with "posted" or "no trespassing" signs.

This section of the Saco River is very popular in the summer months so be prepared for crowds during that time, especially on weekends. For a quieter, more family-friendly experience try paddling in Spring or Fall, or on weekdays.

Other Information

The Swan Falls Visitor Center & Campground can answer questions about exploring the river, and where to go.  They also sell maps, life jackets and other camping essentials.  Fire permits may be obtained at the visitor center as well.

NO DRINKING:

  • Alcohol is illegal anywhere on the Saco.
  • Maine state law prohibits drinking alcoholic beverages in public.
  • Any non-alcoholic beverages must be in reusable bottles, plastic, or cans. NO GLASS.

The Saco River is a wild and natural place. DO NOT LITTER, and please follow the leave no trace principles:

  • Pack out any trash you create. Dumpsters are at all pick up/take out points.
  • NO GLASS ALLOWED; CANS ONLY.
  • No drinking. Maine state law prohibits drinking alcoholic beverages in public.
  • Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
  • Permits are required for all fires. DO NOT cut live trees, use down or dead wood for campfires. Fires on sand bars only.
  • Human waste must be buried in at least 6 inches of soil, not in the sandy beaches.
  • Respect wildlife.
  • Be considerate of other visitors. Keep noise level low.
  • Plan to be off the river well before dark.
  • Please remove all plants from your canoes, trailers and other equipment before launching to help prevent the spread of invasive species, and please recreate responsibly!

Trail Manager

For additional information, please visit the Town of Fryeburg website, or contact:

Town of Fryeburg
16 Lovewell Pond Road
Fryeburg, ME 04037
Phone: (207) 935-2805
townmanager@townoffryeburg.org
View website

Nearby Events

VIEW EVENTS CALENDAR

Trail Tips

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Be prepared for extreme weather. Bring rain/wind gear, warm clothing, and matches/fire starters.

Trailhead Information

PUT-IN, WESTON'S BEACH (River Road)

From downtown Fryeburg coming from the north, head southwest on US-302 (Main Street) toward Oxford Street, then turn right onto ME-113 N (River Street).  Continue for 0.5 mile, and the destination will be on your right.

From downtown Fryeburg coming from the south, head northeast on US-302 (E Main Street) towards Hidden Pines Road, then turn left onto ME-113 N (River Street).  Continue for 0.5 mile, and the destination will be on your right.

Drive cautiously, maximum speed of 10 mph at the take-out and put in areas.

Canoes and kayaks may be hand-carried to the river from the beach. Weston's Beach offers free day parking only, no overnight parking allowed.  

TAKE-OUT, SWAN'S FALLS (189 Swans Falls Road)

From downtown Fryeburg coming from the south, head northeast on US-302 (Main Street) toward Silver Parkway.  Turn left onto Swans Falls Road and go 0.7 miles to the take-out on the right.

From downtown Fryeburg coming from the north, head southwest on US-302 (Main Street) toward Ballard Road.  Turn right onto Swans Falls Road and go0.7 miles to the take-out on the right.

Maintained by the Saco River Recreation Council, parking for entering at Swan's Falls Canoe Access point is $10, or free for Fryeburg residents (present ID to recieve pass). Passes can be obtained at Swan's Falls Campground store. Public restrooms are available.

There is no uber or reliable taxi service in the area.  If you plan to leave your vehicle at your desintation, make sure you have a parking pass or park in the area that allows overnight parking. If you are using a shuttle, it must pre-arranged with local services in the area.

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