Swimming Holes and Covered Bridges
The Nezinscot River winds through the rolling farmland of western Maine between Buckfield and Turner, passing beneath one of the state’s remaining covered bridges and alongside some of the best swimming holes in the region. This is a small, gentle river that rewards slow exploration. The paddling is easy, the scenery is pastoral, and on a hot summer day the swimming holes along the route make it one of the most enjoyable afternoon paddles in Maine.
The Nezinscot does not attract crowds. It is too small and too far from the coast to draw destination paddlers, and that is precisely its charm. You share the river with kingfishers, painted turtles, and the occasional angler casting from the bank. The current is gentle enough to paddle upstream without effort, which means you can explore from a single access point without needing a shuttle.
The river has two main branches that converge near Turner Center. The East Branch flows through Buckfield past the covered bridge, while the West Branch comes down from Sumner. Most paddlers focus on the stretch below the confluence, where the river is wider and deeper, but the East Branch through Buckfield is the most scenic section.
The Nezinscot is best enjoyed as a lazy summer afternoon trip. Launch after lunch, paddle upstream for an hour, find a swimming hole, and spend the afternoon alternating between floating in the river and sitting on a warm rock. Pack a cooler and a picnic. This is not a river to rush through.
Paddling the River
The most popular access is at the bridge in Turner Center, where a pulloff provides space for a few cars. A stable boat and basic kayaking gear are all you need for this gentle water. From here, you can paddle upstream (south) toward Buckfield or downstream (north) toward the Androscoggin River confluence in Auburn.
The upstream paddle toward Buckfield passes through open farmland with views of rolling hills. The river narrows as you approach the East Branch and eventually reaches the covered bridge. The swimming holes are concentrated in this section, where the river cuts through ledge and creates deeper pools below small drops. The water is clear and clean, fed by springs in the surrounding hills.
Downstream from Turner Center, the river widens and the current picks up slightly. This direction leads through more wooded terrain before reaching the Androscoggin. The downstream run is longer and more committed, requiring a shuttle if done as a one-way trip.
The river bottom alternates between sand, gravel, and bedrock ledge. In the pools, the water is deep enough for diving from rocks. On the shallower riffles, you may need to get out and walk your boat across in late summer.
Much of the Nezinscot’s shoreline is private farmland. The swimming holes and gravel bars are accessible from the water, but do not trespass on posted land. Pack out all trash. The local landowners tolerate quiet paddlers and swimmers but have limited patience for noise, litter, and trespassing.
Swimming Holes
The Nezinscot’s swimming holes are its biggest draw. The river cuts through bedrock ledge in several places between Turner and Buckfield, creating pools that range from waist-deep wading spots to overhead-depth holes perfect for jumping in from the rocks.
The best-known swimming hole is near the covered bridge on the East Branch, where a ledge drop creates a natural pool with a sandy bottom and flat rocks for sunbathing. Other swimming holes are scattered along the main stem, identifiable by the deeper, darker water below ledge drops and rapids.
Water temperatures in the pools reach the low 70s by mid-July, comfortable for extended swimming. The water is clean and clear, with good visibility to the bottom.
The swimming hole about half a mile upstream from Turner Center has a flat granite ledge that warms in the afternoon sun and makes a perfect spot for drying off. The pool below it is deep enough to jump in from the ledge, about six feet at summer levels. Locals come here on hot afternoons, but midweek it is usually empty. Park at the Turner Center access and paddle upstream.
When to Go
Spring
High water covers the swimming holes. Good current for paddling but cold water.
Summer
Warm water, exposed swimming holes, perfect for lazy afternoon paddles.
Fall
Foliage, cool water, fewer visitors. Swimming holes still accessible in early fall.
Winter
Too cold. Partially frozen.
Summer is the only real season for the Nezinscot experience. The swimming holes are the main attraction, and they require warm weather to enjoy. July and August are ideal. June is good for paddling but the water is still cold for swimming.
Practical Information
There are no outfitters on the Nezinscot. Bring your own boat. The access points are informal pulloffs with limited parking. Be considerate of neighbors and do not block roads or driveways.
Turner and Buckfield are small towns with minimal services. The nearest full-service town is Auburn, about 20 minutes east. Stock up on food, water, and any supplies before heading to the river.
Cell service is spotty along the river corridor. You will get a signal in Turner Center and Buckfield village but may lose it on the water between them.
Packing List
Nezinscot River Summer Paddle
- Canoe or kayak
- PFD/life jacket for every paddler
- Swimsuit and towel
- Water shoes (for rocky entry to swimming holes)
- Sunscreen
- Cooler with drinks and snacks
- Dry bag for phone and keys
- Trash bag (leave no trace)
- Bug spray
Getting There
Turner Center is on Route 117, accessible from Auburn via Route 4 north. From Portland, take the Maine Turnpike to Auburn (Exit 75), then Route 4 north to Turner, about 60 minutes. From Lewiston, Turner is 15 minutes north on Route 4.
The covered bridge access on the East Branch is in Buckfield, reached from Turner via Route 117 south.
GPS coordinates for Turner Center access: 44.2560, -70.2580
FAQ
Are the swimming holes safe?
The swimming holes vary in depth from waist-deep to overhead. Check depth before jumping. The current in the pools is gentle but present. Children should be supervised. Never dive into water you have not checked.
Can beginners paddle the Nezinscot?
Yes. The river is gentle flatwater with no significant rapids. It is ideal for beginners and families.
Is there a covered bridge?
Yes. The Nezinscot Covered Bridge (also called the Turner Covered Bridge) spans the East Branch of the Nezinscot in Buckfield. It is one of Maine's surviving covered bridges and makes a scenic landmark along the paddle route.
Do I need a shuttle?
Not for most trips. The current is gentle enough to paddle upstream. Most people do an out-and-back trip from Turner Center.
When is the best swimming?
Mid-July through August when water temperatures are warmest. The pools stay swimmable into early September on warm years.
