Canton, Maine

Androscoggin River village with foothill views

Overview

Canton borders Lake Anasagunticook (Canton Lake) and sits just north of the Androscoggin River. The village hosts a beach and boat launch, while surrounding hills give way to logging roads popular with ATV and snowmobile riders. It’s a quiet base between Rumford-Mexico and the Lewiston-Auburn area.

Key Facts

Population 1,050

Region Western Mountains

County Oxford

Founded 1821

Nearest City Rumford (20 minutes)

Town Office Visit official website

What Canton Is Known For

Canton Local Highlights

Lakeside recreation

Public access to Canton Lake for swimming, paddling, and fishing.

River proximity

Quick trips to Androscoggin boat launches and the riverside rail trail.

Trail riding

ATV and snowmobile routes that loop into neighboring foothill towns.

Things to Do

Swim at the beach

Enjoy the town beach on Lake Anasagunticook in summer.

Paddle and fish

Cast for bass on the lake or explore calm sections of the Androscoggin.

Ride the foothills

Use local trailheads for ATVing and sledding toward Hartford and Peru.

Living in Canton

Canton offers lakeside neighborhoods and rural stretches with services in Rumford or Livermore Falls. Residents appreciate the water access and small-village pace.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 70-82 F

winter

Cold, 5-25 F with steady snow

spring

Cool and muddy, 38-55 F

fall

Crisp, 45-60 F with lakeside foliage

How to Get There

Reach Canton via Route 108 from Rumford or Livermore Falls; Route 140 links to Buckfield and Hartford.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Canton outline

Outdoor Recreation

ATV Riding

Late Spring - Late Fall

Boating & Sailing

June - September

Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Snowmobiling in Maine: 14,000 Miles of Trails & Complete Guide

Winter (December - April)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Canton known for?

Canton is known for Lake Anasagunticook (Canton Lake), which offers a public beach, boat launch, and warm-weather recreation. The town sits in the foothills near the Androscoggin River, making it popular with trail riders and paddlers.

Is there a public beach in Canton?

Yes, Canton has a town beach on Lake Anasagunticook with swimming access in summer. The lake also has a boat launch for paddling, fishing, and small watercraft.

How far is Canton from Rumford?

Canton is about 20 minutes south of Rumford via Route 108. The town provides lakeside living while keeping the services of Rumford and Livermore Falls within easy reach.