This Is the Most Claustrophobic Hike in Rhode Island—Would You Try It?

Although Rhode Island is blessed with a long, scenic coastline, it has no mountains. For hikers who love squeezing into small spaces, this means that caves, caverns and tunnels are not as common as they are in more mountainous states. But if you know where to look, you can still find some exciting options that will have your mom throwing a fit once she sees the pictures. The best is probably Dinosaur Caves along the state border with Connecticut, which could be deemed the most claustrophobic hike in Rhode Island. 

Despite their name, the Dinosaur Caves are not actual caves. They also are not related to dinosaurs. No one is certain where the name comes from, but it was probably given simply because the large boulders and ledgers that make up this natural feature seem like they could’ve existed during the Jurassic Period. Don’t let this inaccuracy deter you from coming. The “caves” are a fun outcropping with very narrow crevices and small tunnels and are definitely worth checking out. They can be reached from the Tippecansett Trail and the Narragansett Trail. Both trails straddle between Yawgoog Scout Reservation in Rhode Island and Pachaug State Forest in Connecticut.

There are two unmarked "cave" entrances that are easily missed unless you know what you’re looking for and are paying attention. The first is on top of the boulders. There are multiple crevices, but most are so narrow, only small animals would fit into them. One will have a deeper gap that reveals numerous levels. There is a hole accessible from the second level that leads deeper into the crevice. If you dare, you can try to fit into it and then take a few steps into the slim passageway before coming back up. If you prefer adventures that aren’t as extreme, it’s still interesting to just look into the gap, illuminating it with your flashlight.

Afterwards, you can climb down the boulders and look for a wider gap at the foot of the rock. This entrance has a bit more breathing space. Sadly, this stop is sometimes flooded or blocked, so it’s best to avoid it during periods of heavy rain or snow. (For a winter hike alternative, try the Tillinghast Pond Loop Trail, about half an hour away.) 

You can easily choose the length of your hike when visiting the Dinosaur Caves. If you just want to see the rock formations, park at the Narragansett trailhead on Camp Yawgoog Road and walk around half a mile north. To continue the adventure, keep heading up north along the state border and complete the 12.2-mile Tippecansett Trail. Alternatively, start in the upper part of the latter trail and head south, connecting to the Narragansett Trail and continuing towards Yawgoog Pond and Long Pond. For a multi-state outing, turn west at the intersection between the two trails and follow the Narragansett Trail into Connecticut. In any case, be mindful that these are not loop roads, so you’ll either have to hike back to your starting point or arrange to be picked up at a different location. 

The difficulty of this hike will depend entirely on which segment of the trails you choose to complete, but it’s not recommended for people with small children. The boulders can be slippery, and heading into the narrow slots in the boulder could be dangerous. If you’re traveling with kids and want to see caves, Connors Farm Conservation Area is a good alternative.

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