This rich wetland preserve offers upland woods, wetlands, and an open bog. The kettle bog found here is uncommon in Maine or anywhere, particularly one of this size. It is a unique ecosystem that is very different than any other kind of wetland, in that instead of a bottom of firm soil, the bottom of the bog is made of a floating moss layer. Visitors should remain on marked trails and off the bog for safety.
The property is challenging to access except on frozen ground, so it is open only in the winter. Trailhead parking is typically plowed, and the winter trails are seasonally marked for skiing and snowshoeing. Map panels are installed at the trailhead and at the two major intersections. The trail crosses through shallow wet areas in the utility corridor; stay alert on warmer days to avoid wet skis!
Canaan Bog is owned and managed by the Somerset Woods Trustees. For more information please contact:
From downtown Skowhegan, travel east along ME-2 (Water Street, which becomes Canaan Road). 2.5 miles from the intersection with ME-201 downtown, cross over Wesserunsett Stream, then after another 0.3 miles turn right on East River Road. Travel along East River Road for 3.9 miles to a parking lot on the left (about 1/2 mile past Oak Point Road). Walk past the gate and up along the power line clearing.
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