As any rock star will tell you, a stop in Mexico is a must. So we headed northwest on Asa’s World Tour of Maine to Mexico! Gateway to the western mountains, Mexico, Maine was first part of “Township Number 1” in 1789. However, by 1818 Mexico was incorporated as its own independent town. The name was inspired by local sympathy for Mexico’s 1810-1821 fight for independence from Spain. Perhaps the residents could relate because at that time Maine was attempting to gain its independence from Massachusetts, which occurred two years later in 1820. This small Maine mill town is known for its paper making industry, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Asa: Interesting! But as my tour manager, couldn’t you have got my name on this sign, or at least a key to the city to recognize my visit?
Chuck Billy: Well if you were listening, in that first sentence I said this was a “stop” on your tour. I never said we’d stay long. We are heading up the road a piece to Byron, Maine to explore Coos Canyon.
Chuck Billy: Located along the Swift River, Coos Canyon is 32-foot (9.8-meter) high gorge where the water depth occasionally exceeds 20 feet (6.1 meters). But that’s not why we are here. We are here because folks use to pan for gold in this water! With ticket sales nonexistent, we have to pay for your World Tour of Maine somehow!
Asa: Although small, this really is a beautiful roadside park to enjoy a picnic. Oh and I see there are folks in the water, despite the chill in the air…
Chuck Billy: …And note the way the water has eroded the rocks over the centuries to resemble waves.
Asa: Beautiful! But rather than pan for gold, I think I should quote the poetry of Lord Byron, after all, this 19th century British poet was considered the “rock star” of his day, and Byron, Maine is named in his honor.
“There is a pleasure in the pathless woods,
There is a rapture on the lonely shore,
There is society where none intrudes,
By the deep Sea, and music in its roar:
I love not Man the less, but Nature more…”
~ Lord Byron, “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage” (1812)
Chuck Billy: I’m glad we both agree that Lord Byron was a much better wordsmith than you. Speaking of pathless woods, dogs are allowed on-leash at Coos Canyon, and as always please clean up after them.
Chuck Billy: There are many hiking trails and places to explore in the area, ranging from easy to difficult. However please note, not all are dog friendly, due to the level of difficulty.
Thus concludes this stop on Asa’s World Tour of Maine in Mexico and Byron. Please join us tomorrow as we continue west to search for another stop on our grand adventure!
