The Magnificent Pond in Rhode Island That’s Located a Short Stroll From the Parking Lot

Sometimes shedding the stress of the day requires little more than a quick break. Other times I want to get outdoors and escape from it all – the noise, the responsibilities, the little annoyances that seem to balloon as the day wears on. We’ve all had those days where we want to shut off the noise but our energy levels are nil. Fortunately, we’ve got plenty of ways to let that stress go, including with a stroll on this short and sweet path to a beautiful pond in Rhode Island.

Some days just call for a chill adventure that allows us to spend some time lost in nature, enjoying the fresh air, and appreciating the pretty scenery. Breakheart Pond Loop via Hicks Trail, a short and sweet path that tallies just over 1.5 miles, doesn’t require a whole lot of time, about half an hour on average, but promises an abundance of natural beauty, including white pine trees, laurel, and even a tiny cascade or two. The easy trail meanders through Arcadia State Management Area, so it unsurprisingly gets busy at times. Expect to run into others out hiking, walking their dogs (all dogs are welcome if they’re leashed), or snowshoeing if there’s snow on the ground.

If it's the views you're after, you don’t have to follow the entire trail. Slide into one of the parking spots in the small lot, which has less than a dozen spaces, and take a short stroll to the water’s edge. Flanked by white pine trees that mirror off the water, the 44-acre pond is popular with boaters and kayakers. If you plan to explore by boat, you’re only allowed to do so in a non-motorized or an electric boat.

However, if you are up for the adventure of following the Breakheart Pond Loop via Hicks Trail, go prepared. The area can get buggy, so insect repellant is a must, and water shoes are a good idea, especially if you’re heading out after it rains. Don’t expect too many changes along this predominately flat path that loops around the pond. The elevation gain is just under 60 feet, making it an easy walk even for the kiddos.

Have you been to Breakheart Pond in Rhode Island? What did you think? Was the trail easy? Would you follow it again? Let us know in the comments! If you prefer a challenge and want to explore Arcadia State Management Area some more, set off on the moderately difficult 13.4-mile North South Exeter to Carbuncle Pond Trail. Or check out AllTrails for more of the best trails in Rhode Island.