Spot Wildflowers, Birds, And More Along This Picture-Perfect Nature Trail In Rhode Island
Francis C. Carter Memorial Preserve offers a serene hiking experience with scenic views and diverse flora.
Even the most extroverted among us will likely agree that a little bit of quiet is oh-so-good for the soul. Finding that quiet, on the other hand, can pose some problems, especially in a world where we're always connected. That's what makes nature so perfect. We can turn off our phones - or maybe just lower the ringer - and spend time soaking up everything that's around us - the flowers, the trees, and the birds. One wander along this nature trail, one of the best hikes in Rhode Island, will likely have you coming back again and again.
Sprawled across 1,100 acres, Francis C. Carter Memorial Preserve is the second largest nature preserve in Rhode Island, and it's the perfect place for getting lost in nature.
Spring hikes in Rhode Island aren't difficult to find; this is one of the best.
While four loop trails wind through the lush Rhode Island nature preserve, the 3.6-mile Moraine Loop & Pasture Loop Trail is perfect for both the kiddos and the pups.
If you bring your pooch on one of the best spring hikes in RI, make sure he's leashed and pick up after him. Follow the pack-in pack-out mantra. Whatever you take with you on your hike, bring it back out.
The trail snags an easy rating, although it does have slight elevation along the way, so keep that in mind before setting off.
A sturdy pair of hiking shoes will serve you well as some areas may be overgrown and there are sometimes tree roots jutting out of the ground. Keep an eye on the ground, so you don't trip or twist an ankle on one of those rocks or roots.
One of the highlights of the trail, if you're hiking during the warmer months, is the fields of some of the prettiest flowers in Rhode Island.
Remember to stop and smell the flowers, but leave them as you've found them.
If you like variety, you'll love this picturesque path that winds through fields and forests.
You might even pass bushes of wild blueberries and...
Grassland as far as the eye can see. This is one trek you do not want to forget your camera, sunscreen, bug spray (especially in the warmer months, it can get really buggy), and plenty of water.
Unique rock formations, formed by glaciers, dot the landscape.
Make sure your smartphone is charged or bring a camera. So many photo-worthy moments await along one of the best hikes in RI.
One important thing to note for your visit. You must wear florescent orange - a hat or a vest - during bow hunting season, which runs annually from September 15 to January 31.
Please note that bow hunting is not permitted in all areas of the preserve.
Learn more about Carter Preserve on the Nature Conservancy website.
Have you followed Moraine Loop and Old Pasture Loop? What did you think? Do you agree that it's one of the best hikes in Rhode Island? Share your experience in the comments! Then discover why Charlestown is perhaps the most peaceful place in Rhode Island. When you're ready to explore more, check out all of the best hiking trails in Rhode Island on AllTrails.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/rhode-island/charlestown-is-a-small-town-in-rhode-island-that-offers-plenty-of-peace-and-quiet/
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