Best Waterfalls in Rhode Island: 11 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems

While the Ocean State is known mainly for, well, the ocean and Narragansett Bay, we do have bodies of water inland. These bodies of water include the Providence River, Scituate Reservoir, and Trustom Pond. We even have several waterfalls sprinkled throughout our great little state.

Have you seen any of our waterfalls in person? Well, as someone who grew up here and has done quite a bit of hiking throughout the state, I am surprised by the number of falls we have access to. Without further adieu, here are the best waterfalls in Rhode Island.

Tallest Waterfalls In Rhode Island

Rhode Island does have waterfalls, but we are not known for having tall waterfalls. But that's okay! The waterfalls we do have are still stunning and impressive.

1. Cascade Brook Falls, Ken Weber Conservation Trail

At just 12 feet tall, Cascade Brook Falls is the tallest waterfall in Rhode Island. Located within the Ken Weber Conservation Area in my hometown of Smithfield (for those who don't know, Greenville is a village within Smithfield), you'll have to take an enjoyable 0.8-mileloop trail to see one of the most scenic waterfalls in RI.

Free to visit, Cascade Brook Falls is a seasonal waterfall best seen during the spring. The trail is clearly marked. However, it may be challenging for some due to the rocky terrain.

2. Horseshoe Falls, Charlestown

Also known as Shannock Falls (named after the historic village of Shannock in Charlestown), Horseshoe Falls is an impressive sight due to its unique horseshoe shape. The man-made cascade is approximately 10 feet. No matter what time of year you visit, it's awe-inspiring. However, visitors prefer coming here during autumn due to the stunning display of colorful leaves surrounding the waterfall—it's picture-perfect!

Best Waterfall Hikes In Rhode Island

Let's go for a hike! After all, it's often the best way to discover a waterfall in our small but mighty state. Hikers can find lovely waterfalls along the following hiking trails:

3. Stepstone Falls, West Greenwich

If you want to see Stepstone Falls, the best way to do that is via the Ben Utter Trail. Located in the Arcadia State Management Area in West Greenwich, this 2.7-mile trail is one of the best waterfall hikes in Rhode Island. Austin Farm Road is where you'll find the trailhead, and after following the river for a time, you'll eventually see Stepstone Falls, a series of small waterfalls with a 3-foot cascade as its tallest point. This is a popular hiking trail, so expect some foot traffic along the way..

4. Hunts Mill, East Providence

Located on the grounds of the historic John Hunt House, one of the oldest homes in the area, the hike to Hunts Mill is an easy 0.7-mile trek. While the waterfall here is manmade, it's no less beautiful than a natural one. Another thing of note about the property it's on is that an amusement park once stood here! You'll be able to see remnants of an old carousel amidst other historical buildings as you make your way to the waterfall.

5. Barden Reservoir Loop, Foster

While there is a way to see the waterfall without hiking, you may want to try the 4.5-mile Barden Reservoir Loop. Along the trail, you'll hike past historical cemeteries where Civil War veterans are buried, a fascinating feature for you history buffs out there. There's also a farm you'll pass, and there are road crossings at certain sections of the trail, so be sure to exercise caution. When you get to the spillway, you'll see the waterfall known as Ponagansett Falls. This is the point where you'll see more people who decided to access the waterfall without hiking.

6. Belleville Pond Trail, North Kingstown

The easy 4.6-mile hike at Belleville Pond is another one that leads to a manmade waterfall. The beautiful trail will eventually lead to a spillway with a lovely waterfall located at Ryan Park in North Kingstown. There's plenty of scenery around the park, including Belleview Pond. You'll want to spend a few hours here, although the hike only takes around 90 minutes.

Accessible Waterfalls In Rhode Island (No Hiking Required)

Don't want to hike to a waterfall? Don't worry! Not all of us are hikers. If you want to see a waterfall without a hike, here are some of the most accessible waterfalls in Rhode Island:

7. Harrisville Falls, Burrillville

Harrisville Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in Rhode Island. While manmade, it's also among the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. Measuring 150 feet across with a 30-foot cascade, it's one of the biggest waterfalls in RI. Located by the Waterfall Cafe & Martini Bar, a popular establishment in town, you can view the waterfall as you dine. This is one of the best waterfall hikes in Rhode Island you can take.

8. Kenyon's Grist Mill Falls, West Kingston

If you've ever wanted to discover hidden gem waterfalls in Rhode Island, here's one for you—the waterfall at Kenyon's Grist Mill in West Kingston. Found along the Queen's River in the village of Usquepaugh, this historic 1886 Kenyon's Grist Mill is still in use and has a gift shop you can visit. While you're here, walk on the property and discover the lovely hidden gem waterfall!

Best Waterfalls near Providence

While our state is small, and it seems like everywhere in Rhode Island is near Providence, here are a few waterfalls that are closest to our capital city:

9. Albion Falls, Lincoln

Another hidden gem waterfall in Rhode Island, Albion Falls, is a manmade waterfall created by the construction of the Albion Dam at the Albion Mill in Lincoln. The water is from the Blackstone River. While the historic mill has since been transformed into housing, the waterfall has remained and is a reminder of the area's industrial past.

10. Slater Mill Dam, Pawtucket

Among the most famous Rhode Island waterfalls is undoubtedly the one you'll find at Slater Mill Dam. This impressive waterfall is historic as it was created during the construction of Slater Mill during the Industrial Revolution. Powered by the waters of the Blackstone River, Slater Mill was a thriving cotton mill. Today, it is a historic site where you can tour the mill and its grounds and view the waterfall. It’s one of the best day trips you can take in Northern Rhode Island.

11. Robin Hollow Pond Falls, Cumberland

Located along the Rhode Island/Massachusetts border in Cumberland is Robin Hollow Pond, where you'll find a spillway with a pretty little cascade. As it's such a lovely area, it's worth a road trip to see it in person.

Best Times to Visit Rhode Island's Waterfalls

Spring is generally the best time of year to visit Rhode Island's waterfalls, as winter snowmelt and seasonal rain flow pick up to create spectacular waterfall viewing conditions.

Which of the best waterfalls in Rhode Island have you visited before? Do you prefer hiking to a waterfall, or do you like to see one without a hike? If you like trekking along hiking trails to see a waterfall, make sure to download the AllTrails+ app as your guide.