Canaan Spring, Skowhegan, Maine

## Overview Canaan Spring is a roadside public drinking spring located along Route 2 (Canaan Road) in the Skowhegan area of Somerset County, Maine. The spring flows continuously from a pipe at the roadside, offering passersby a convenient stop for fresh, naturally sourced water. This type of roadside pipe spring is a beloved New England tradition — many such springs have served travelers and locals for generations, providing a free and refreshing alternative to municipal water. The spring sits at an elevation typical of central Maine's rolling terrain, where groundwater filters through layers of glacial till and bedrock before emerging at the surface. Visitors have historically used springs like this one as a drinking water source, and it remains a popular stop for locals filling jugs and bottles. The spring is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round. ## Directions 1. From **Canaan village**, head **west on Route 2 (Canaan Road)** toward Skowhegan. 2. Continue approximately **5 miles** along Route 2. 3. Watch for the spring on the **roadside** — water flows from a pipe near the road at or near **543 Canaan Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976**. 4. The spring is easily accessible from the road with no hiking required. Pull off safely to the shoulder to collect water. **GPS Coordinates:** 44.775986, -69.658813 ## What to Expect Canaan Spring is a simple, no-frills roadside spring. Water flows from a pipe directly at the road's edge, making it one of the easiest springs to access in the region — no trails, no gates, and no fees. The flow runs year-round, though water volume may vary seasonally, and the pipe could potentially freeze during the coldest stretches of Maine's winter. The surrounding area is rural central Maine countryside, with wooded stretches and open farmland along Route 2. There are no facilities at the spring itself — no restrooms, parking lot, or signage beyond what may be locally posted. Simply pull over safely on the shoulder, fill your containers, and enjoy. As with any natural spring, water quality can change over time due to weather, runoff, and other environmental factors. While this spring has been reported as a popular local source for drinking water, visitors should be aware that untested spring water carries inherent risks. Those with compromised immune systems or concerns about water safety may wish to treat or filter the water before consumption.