This Scenic Rhode Island Hike Is Even Better in the Winter

Admittedly, I am not much of a warm-weather hiker and much prefer to hit the trails in fall or winter when the air has a slight crisp feel, a cold breeze stings my face, and I can wear layers. I also love hiking in the woods when there's a layer of snow on the ground—there's something so magical about it! And with the holidays approaching, what better way to get outside of our stuffy houses, especially after a holiday meal, and breathe in some fresh air while getting some exercise? If you love winter hiking in Rhode Island as much as I do, the Tillinghast Pond Loop is a scenic, peaceful trail you may want to enjoy with family or friends this season.

A property of The Nature Conservancy, Tillinghast Pond Management Area in West Greenwich, is home to a clear, shallow pond surrounded by woods. Within its 2,200 serene and scenic acres, 13 miles of hiking trails are open to visitors from dawn until dusk throughout the year. While the trails are popular during the spring, summer, and fall, they are often much quieter in the winter. For me, winter is the ideal time to hike the trails at Tillinghast Pond Management Area, especially the Tillinghast Pond Loop.

The Tillinghast Pond Loop is a 2.3-mile route that circumnavigates the pond. You'll follow the white blazes along the trail that begins and ends at the parking lot located on Plain Road in West Greenwich. An easy trail, you'll either enjoy a quiet solo hike or a more lively hike filled with chatter among your family or friends as you walk around the pond.

As you walk, marvel at the beautiful pond's water, which is more visible through the leafless trees during winter than at any other time of year. Views can also be seen from fields you'll encounter at certain points along the trail. About halfway around the loop is an observation deck overlooking the water, where you can stop for a while and gaze out over the water, searching for birds that spend the winter at Tillinghast Pond.

In addition to the pond's scenic beauty, you'll see a variety of trees, including ash, oak, and white pines. It's no wonder that this is such a popular hiking spot throughout the year, but you can discover a quieter trail during the cold winter months.

Where will your hiking adventures take you in Rhode Island this winter? For a Tillinghast Pond Loop map and to view more photos, visit AllTrails. A parking lot for the preserve's main trails is located at 100 Plain Road in West Greenwich, where you will also find a restroom. Additionally, two other parking lots are available at 600 Plain Meeting House Road and 150 Hazard Road.

If you have a favorite winter trail you enjoy taking and would like to share it, please do so through our nomination page. You can also plan your own Rhode Island winter hiking adventures with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.