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Byron, Maine

Byron, Maine

Coos Canyon swimming on the Swift River

Overview

Byron hugs the Swift River between Rumford and Rangeley and is famous for Coos Canyon-"granite ledges carved into swim holes where visitors pan for gold and cool off in summer. The town is almost entirely forested, with snowmobile and ATV routes leaving from camp roads and quick access to the scenic heights on Route 17.

Key Facts

Population 103
Region Western Mountains
County Oxford
Nearest City Rumford (20 minutes)

What Byron Is Known For

Byron Local Highlights

Coos Canyon
Natural rock gorge and swimming ledges on the Swift River with roadside access.
Gold panning
Public panning spots where hobbyists still sift the river for flakes.
Scenic Byway
Route 17 overlooks toward the Rangeley Lakes and Height of Land.

Things to Do

1
Swim at Coos Canyon
Cool off in the ledges and pools along the Swift River.
2
Gold pan pull-offs
Try your luck in the gravel bars-"several roadside spots allow it.
3
Foliage drive Route 17
Combine Byron with a loop to Rangeley for sweeping mountain views.
4
Ride winter trails
ITS snowmobile routes connect to Roxbury, Rumford, and Rangeley when snow flies.

Living in Byron

Rural setting with basic services in neighboring towns; most homes rely on wells, septic, and plowed local roads.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 68-80 F

winter

Cold, 0-25 F

spring

Cool and muddy, 38-55 F

fall

Crisp, 45-60 F

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Byron known for?

Byron is known for Coos Canyon on the Swift River, featuring natural swimming holes carved into granite ledges where visitors can pan for gold. The town also offers stunning views along the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway on Route 17.

Can you pan for gold in Byron?

Yes, Byron has public gold panning spots along the Swift River where hobbyists still sift the gravel for gold flakes. Several roadside pull-offs along Coos Canyon allow recreational panning.

How far is Byron from Rumford?

Byron is about 20 minutes from Rumford on Route 17. The tiny town sits between Rumford and Rangeley along the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway, offering access to Height of Land overlooks and mountain views.

Nearby Towns

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