Solon, a sleepy town in rural central Maine, is a great place to enjoy the majestic mountains, rivers and lakes of the state. Put on your hiking boots, snowshoes or cross-country skis to follow its wilderness trails throughout the year. Make the most of the beautiful Kennebec River, which runs through town.
Back in 1775 during the American Revolutionary War, General Benedict Arnold and his men made their way through Maine, stopping to camp here in Solon before heading up Kennebec River to fight the Battle of Quebec. Though little evidence of its Revolutionary History remains, Solon does proudly preserve its past.
Visit the iconic South Solon Meeting House. The 19th-century Gothic-revival church, with its short steeple and white siding, may look unassuming from the outside. Go inside to find stunning frescos covering the walls and ceiling. In the 1950s, the world-famous Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture engaged several artists to adorn the walls with their colorful artwork.
See the site of the old Caratunk Falls just northwest of town. The Kennebec River used to cascade here, before a dam was built. Walk along the craggy rocks that line the river’s edge and enjoy the dramatic view. The surrounding area, designated the Caratunk Falls Archeological District, is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. A range of objects, dating from the Middle Archaic period up to the European contact period have been found here.
Take a road trip on the Old Canada Road, which is now called U.S. Route 201. For much of the early 19th century, this road served as the main link between Maine and Canada. Today, drive on the National Scenic Byway along the Kennebec River valley and up to the Canadian border. In winter, go downhill skiing on Sugarloaf Mountain, which is about 50 minutes away by car.
Located in Somerset County, quiet and rural Solon feels far removed from the rest of the world, but it is centrally located in the state. Drive about an hour south to Augusta, Maine’s capital, or just over an hour east to the city of Bangor.
