The 10 Best Hiking Spots In Rhode Island Show Off The Ocean State

The Ocean State offers more than just the beauty of the sea and outstanding beaches (though that's a pretty dreamy combination in and of itself!). Stunning state parks, glorious nature preserves, and incredible hiking trails are found all over Rhode Island! In fact, my fondest outdoor memories involve a few days on the North/South Trail hiking through the entire state, and taking in amazingly diverse and breathtaking views. If you're searching for a hike through magical dense forested areas leading to waterfalls or walks along the seaside rock formations (or even small boulder fields), you can find it all and more with the best hiking spots in Rhode Island.

1. Parker Woodland, Coventry

Hiking trails are scattered across this 860-acre property. Explore amazing old forest land, rock cairns, and dazzling brooks at Parker Woodlands. Read more about Parker Woodland in this feature.

2. Arcadia Management Area, Richmond, Exeter, Hopkinton, and West Greenwich

As the state's largest and arguably most magnificent recreational area, these great hiking trails are not only diverse -- but also magical. The whopping 14,000 forested acres have dozens of trail options. We suggest exploring them all! Read more about this magical place in our article.

3. Ninigret Wildlife Refuge, Charlestown

Ninigret Wildlife Refuge consists of hundreds of beautiful acres of uplands and wetlands. If you want to see incredibly diverse wildlife, this is the perfect place for a hike in Rhode Island. Read more about Ninigret Wildlife Refuge on our website.

4. Lincoln Woods, Lincoln

Lincoln Woods State Park abounds with hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty. This place is not only picturesque, but ideal to catch the fall foliage. Read more about Lincoln Woods State Park in our feature.

5. Weetamoo Woods, Tiverton

The several hundred acres of Weetamoo Woods in Tiverton boasts beautiful views and trails for all skill levels. Horses and bicycles are also welcome and will likely be encountered on your walk. Discover more about Weetamoo Woods in this article.

6. Neutaconkanut Park, Providence

Walking up Neutaconkanut Hill is an incredible experience for those who enjoy a stunning city skyline. This lovely park is also equipped with a skate park, fields, and beautiful meadows. Read all about Neutaconkanut Park in Providence, Rhode Island.

7. Burlingame State Park, Charlestown

This state park isn't just known for its amazing fishing and hiking - it also has arguably the best camping in the state. Discover more about Burlingame State Park.

8. Colt State Park, Bristol

Formerly owned by industrialist Samuel P. Colt, this park consists of 864 acres of beautiful land with various trails to choose from. The lovely views of the water along many of the hikes are such a uniquely Rhode Island experience. Learn more about Colt State Park.

9. Goddard Memorial Park, Warwick

Goddard Memorial Park in Warwick offers amazing seaside hiking trails with beautiful views of the bay. With acres of forest, fields, and beachfront, this is a perfect space to pack a lunch and spend your day exploring. Read more about Goddard Memorial Park.

10. Brenton Point State Park, Newport

Not only does the annual Newport Kite Festival happen at this charming state park, there are also beautiful trails with much to discover, including an abandoned historical building. Read more about Brenton Point State Park.

The hundreds of trail options located at all of these parks and public lands will bring out the explorer in you. What is your favorite hiking spot in Rhode Island?