Skip the Hikes and Try This Rail Trail in Rhode Island Instead

Maybe you just got a new bike. Maybe the kids are finally old enough to keep up. Maybe you're simply not in the mood for a steep climb and want to trade the trailhead for the open path. Whatever brought you here, this rail trail in Rhode Island is worth your attention — 19 miles of paved path winding through forests, past rivers, and alongside reservoirs, with barely any elevation gain and scenery that keeps getting better the farther west you go.

Where This Rail Trail in Rhode Island Is and What Makes It Unique

The Washington Secondary Rail Trail runs across central Rhode Island, from Cranston in the east to the western edge of Coventry near Log Bridge Road. It follows the old corridor of the Hartford, Providence, and Fishkill Railroad, which is why it's so flat (former rail lines don't typically do major hills).

The trail is paved, is open year-round, and free to access. Parking lots are scattered along the route, including at Brewery Parkade in Cranston, Riverpoint Park in West Warwick, and Station Street in Coventry. You can pick it up from multiple points depending on how far you want to go and what kind of views you're after.

It's also a designated section of the East Coast Greenway and part of a long-term plan to eventually connect with trails in Connecticut, but right now, those 19 miles are more than enough to fill up a fun afternoon.

Why It’s a Rewarding Alternative to a Traditional Hike

Hiking is one of the best ways to spend time outdoors, but it's not the only one. The Washington Secondary is a compelling alternative for days when you're a little tight on time, looking for something easier, or just want an adventure that feels a little different from the usual hike.

Because it follows a former rail corridor, the trail is almost entirely flat with only a slight, gradual downhill heading east. There's no scrambling, no steep grades, and no technical terrain. That makes it genuinely accessible for families with young kids, beginners on bikes, and anyone who wants the outdoor experience without the physical demand of a serious climb.

It's stroller-friendly, wheelchair-friendly, and dogs are welcome on leash. Drivers at road crossings are notably courteous—reviewers on AllTrails mention cars waving cyclists through even when they have the right of way. The whole vibe is low-key—well-marked and straightforward from start to finish.

What You’ll See Along the Way

The trail starts in Cranston's commercial corridor—a little urban, a few road crossings—but stick with it. By West Warwick, things shift. The Pawtuxet River South Branch appears and runs parallel to the trail for more than half its length. You'll cross bridge after bridge, spot old brick textile mills tucked into the trees, and hear the river moving below.

The western stretch through Coventry is where the trail really earns its reputation, and it's easy to see why many locals consider it one of the most scenic bike trails in Rhode Island. Pine trees arch overhead, ferns line rocky cuts in the hillside, and wildlife sightings are common, especially birds, deer, and the occasional fox. The Flat River Reservoir and Coventry Reservoir Dam are standout landmarks in this section, and historic interpretive signs along the Trestle Trail give context to the old railway beneath the asphalt.

Wildflowers are a highlight in late spring. Forests keep things cool and shaded through summer. Fall color makes the Coventry section especially striking in October.

What It’s Like To Experience It

The full trail runs point-to-point, with an average completion time of around 5 to 6.5 hours. One of the best things about a good rail trail, at least in my book, is that you’re never really locked into one experience. That feels especially true here. Most people do an out-and-back from one of the mid-trail lots, so you have the option to ride as little or as much as you want. The surface is smooth enough for road bikes, hybrids, and even rollerbladers through most sections.

On a weekday, long stretches feel almost private. Weekends bring more company, cyclists, runners, dog walkers, and families, but the trail is wide enough that it never feels crowded. The atmosphere is relaxed and social without being busy. You can ride at your own pace, stop when something catches your eye, and not worry about holding anyone up.

Tips for Visiting

• Best time: Late spring through early fall for full leaf cover and wildflowers. The Coventry section is beautiful year-round.
• What to bring: Water is essential, since there are no public fountains along the route. A few gas stations and coffee shops sit just off the path in Cranston and West Warwick if you need a mid-ride stop.
• After the ride: Flat River Tavern in Coventry sits just off the western end of the trail and is a popular post-ride destination for a refreshing beer and delicious food.

• Construction note: Like any well-used rail trail, maintenance and resurfacing projects happen from time to time, so it’s worth checking AllTrails or Rhode Island Department of Transportation for current conditions before you go.
• Local tip: Around Rhode Island, you may hear different sections of the Washington Secondary referred to by the segment names used when the trail was built, including the Cranston Bike Path, Warwick Bike Path, West Warwick Greenway, Coventry Greenway, and Trestle Trail.

For rental bikes in the area, Cloud of Goods in Cranston and Trek Bicycle in Warwick are both convenient options.

Rhode Island doesn't lack for incredible outdoor options, from stunning waterfalls to coastal walks to some of the best hiking trails in the U.S. But for a day when the goal is to simply get outside and move, and enjoy some beautiful scenery, this rail trail in Rhode Island has a way of reminding you that not every great adventure has to be on a hiking trail.