One of my favorite things about Rhode Island is all those hidden pockets of nature that call out to us to explore. Since I’m admittedly not an experienced or completely savvy hiker (at least not yet), I sometimes seek out those trails that promise minimal challenges and abundant natural beauty. That’s what you’ll find if you head out on this forest trail in Glocester, Rhode Island, a pretty path that’s perfect if you’re a seasoned hiker in the mood for a chill adventure or a novice who wants to bring the kiddos along.

Sprawled across more than 1,200 acres in Glocester, Sprague Farm offers plenty of family-friendly ways to explore. Bring your binoculars for a bit of bird-watching; go on a geocaching hunt, or get to know this natural area on one of its trails. Don’t limit yourself to hiking either; mountain biking, running, and horseback riding are all popular with adventurers.

While you can easily spend all day at Sprague Farm, if it’s your first time here or you don’t have a ton of time, start your adventure with a trek along the Sprague Farm Town Forest Loop Trail. Hovering around 3.7 miles, the trail is easy enough for kids and dogs (just make sure your pup is on a leash) while offering a few minor challenges like rocky terrain in spots and roots jutting up from the ground.

Before setting off, though, make sure you lather on the bug spray during the warmer months, as it can get really buggy, and keep an eye out for poison ivy, especially at the beginning of the trail. Staying on the trail should help you avoid poison ivy, but it's always better to play it safe by paying attention to the plants you pass. Because you’ll have to deal with some rocky areas and roots, consider wearing a sturdy pair of shoes. The good news is the trail is predominately flat, so you don’t have to worry about steep inclines or over-exerting yourself.

All of that preparation will allow you to immerse yourself in the experience as you stroll along the forest path that’s brimming with vibrant wildflowers, deep green moss, turtles sunning on rocks, and trees offering shade in the warmer months. Toads are abundant, so watch your step as you hike. If you like imagining what once was, you’ll have plenty of chances to do that on this path that passes crumbling stone walls. You’ll also walk by a cemetery, perfect for stopping for a moment to reflect.

Ready to slip on your hiking shoes and go exploring? Learn more about Sprague Farm on the official website of Glocester Land Trust, or stop by the Glocester, RI Land Trust Facebook page.

Have you hiked this pretty forest trail in Glocester, Rhode Island? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! After you’ve followed the Sprague Farm Town Forest Loop Trail, why not explore some more? Find all of the trails at Sprague Farm, and throughout Rhode Island, on All Trails. Or, if you love animals, plan a visit to farm rescue in Glocester, Rhode Island.