This Pond Is Perfect For Easy Hiking And Bird Watching In Rhode Island

Spending time outdoors, no matter how long or how little, can sometimes be just what we need to help us tackle the rest of the day. There's just something about the fresh air that can turn a day around, isn't there? Even a short stroll around the block holds so much promise. If you're short on time but feel like exploring somewhere new or lesser-known to you, head over to this picturesque pond in Westerly, Rhode Island.

Whether you're pressed for time or have hours to spare, you'll quickly discover that Lathrop Wildlife Refuge offers a slice of tranquility and plenty of breathtaking natural beauty.

Keep an eye out for the sign that alerts you that you've arrived at the parking lot of the wildlife refuge. You'll find ample parking, although the area can get quite crowded.

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted in the wildlife refuge.

Snuggled on 86 acres along Winnapaug Pond, the wildlife area features a variety of landscapes - from freshwater wetlands and a salt marsh to coastal shrubland.

The wildlife refuge has just one short and sweet hiking trail. Spanning less than half a mile, the Lathrop Wildlife Refuge Trail will lead you along an easy path.

You might feel as though you're wandering through a tunnel of trees, which add a pop of color to the landscape during the fall.

Most consider the trail more of a walking path that takes no longer than five minutes or so to complete. Be prepared for some mud after it rains and horse flies in the warmer months.

That short trail leads to Winnapaug Pond and some of the prettiest views in Westerly.

Kayaking is also popular on this pond in Westerly, Rhode Island.

Both the pond and the wildlife refuge are popular with birdwatchers, so keep an eye out for a variety of species. Willets, snowy egrets, yellow warblers, and Baltimore orioles all call the area home.

You might even spot horseshoe crabs.

Lathrop Wildlife Refuge is open all year from sunrise to sunset.

Find more information on Lathrop Wildlife Refuge on the official website of the Audubon Society of Rhode Island.

Have you been to Lathrop Wildlife Refuge, home to this beautiful pond in Westerly, Rhode Island? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! You've probably worked up a hearty appetite at the wildlife refuge, which gives you a good reason to head over to Cinder, one of the best restaurants in Westerly, Rhode Island.

Ready to get out and explore some more? Check out some of the best hiking trails in Rhode Island.