Find 4 Bucket-List-Level Views in Rhode Island Without Needing to Be an Expert Hiker

Rhode Island is a relatively flat state. Still, I've taken on quite a few challenging hikes throughout the years, including the World War II Memorial Loop at Wolf Hill Forest Preserve and the Connors Farm Loop Trail, both located in my hometown of Smithfield. But a strenuous hike isn't the only way to arrive at a bucket list view in Rhode Island. In fact, some of the most scenic views in Rhode Island don't require much of a hike at all. Here are for easy trails where you can discover bucket-list-level views without being an expert hiker:

1. Beavertail Lighthouse Loop - Jamestown

In my opinion, Beavertail State Park is one of the prettiest spots in Rhode Island. At only 153 acres, it's quite small, but the views of the Beavertail Lighthouse and the rugged coastline are outstanding. You can absolutely take a hike on the easy 2.3-mile Beavertail Lighthouse Loop, but you actually don't even have to get out of your car for the bucket list views you'll find here—you can see spectacular vistas from the parking lot. This park is also an excellent spot for a picnic, which is what my aunt and I used to do.

2. Cliff Walk - Newport

The 3.5-mile Cliff Walk hugs the rocky coastline of Newport from Easton's Beach to Reject's Beach, past Gilded Age mansions on one side and the Atlantic on the other. While it seems long to some, you don't have to walk the entire length to enjoy the state's most iconic views. You can find access points down several side streets and can walk as far as you'd like before turning around. The easiest portion of the trail is between Easton's Beach and Ruggles Ave near The Breakers. Visit Discover Newport for parking information.

3. Rocky Point Walking Trail - Warwick

Not only is the Rocky Point Walking Trail a pleasant coastal hike, but it is also a nostalgic one for those of us who grew up going to Rocky Point Amusement Park. After 150 years in operation, the amusement park closed in 1996, leaving many locals, like myself, deeply saddened. In 2014, the property reopened as a coastal state park, featuring remnants of beloved old rides and interpretive signs along the path. While we will always miss Rocky Point as it once was, taking a walk here brings us back, and the water views are as beautiful as they've always been.

4. Mohegan Bluffs Trail - Block Island

Another favorite view of mine is Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island. My dad and I would take the ferry over on a day trip and bike all over the place, including to the top of the bluffs. The dramatic cliffs soar nearly 200 feet over the crashing waves of the Atlantic, and while looking up at them from the beach is incredible, so is viewing them from the top. All that's required is a short walk from the parking area!

Have you seen any of these bucket-list views in Rhode Island? If you have a favorite vista that can be found without embarking on a challenging hike, please fill out our nomination form to tell us all about it—we love hearing from our readers!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own Rhode Island hiking trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.