If you're lucky enough to live in or be planning a visit to Rhode Island, you have to know how many amazing hiking trails there are to offer. For such a small state, it is truly shocking to learn that there are over 100 unique trails to explore all across little Rhodey. With terrain of all sorts and a variety of difficulty from easy to very hard, there is a hike for every type of adventurer to enjoy. Right now we are admiring this lovely loop trail in Saunderstown.
Rome Point trail is a well trafficked loop in Saunderstown.
Exploring the woods hasn’t changed much, at least for me, from childhood to adulthood, except I appreciate the natural beauty, especially during the autumn, so much more. Despite the passing of the years, the adventure remains the same as I try to spot critters scurrying along the path, feel childhood glee when my eyes connect with a deer in the distance, and seek out fallen tree branches to climb over. Channel that childhood awe with an adventure in the woods on an enchanting fall hike in Rhode Island.
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Lincoln Woods State Park promises breathtaking beauty in all four seasons, but there’s something so magical about a walk through the woods near or at the peak of the fall foliage. Shades of red, orange, and gold add a pop of color to the landscape, often leaving us in childhood awe. At just over three miles, the Lincoln Woods Trail scores an easy rating, making it fun for hikers of all skill levels, including the kiddos. Leashed pups are allowed so the whole family can join in on an epic autumn adventure.
While the meandering path is easy, as with any trail, you may face a few obstacles. In some places, the wooded trail isn’t marked, so your best bet is to bring a map or download AllTrails. You might also come across fallen trees you’ll have to climb over or maneuver around. Depending on the season, don’t forget the obligatory insect repellant as this area gets incredibly buggy.
As a kid, I loved to climb and walk across fallen tree limbs, arms out like a gymnast teetering on the balance beam, but Lincoln Woods Trail has something even better. The trail will lead you right past large boulders that are popular with climbers, so make sure you’ve got the proper footwear if you plan to explore. Even if you don’t feel like scrambling, the rock formations, some of which are surrounded by colorful trees, make pretty cool backdrops for photos.
Since Lincoln Woods Trail traverses the perimeter of this cozy state park, you’ll be treated to a variety of scenic beauty – Olney Pond framed by brilliant foliage, stone remnants of crumbling buildings, and an enchanting covered bridge – all against the backdrop of the autumn landscape.
Have you followed the Lincoln Woods Trail, an enchanting fall hike in Rhode Island? What did you think? Do you have any advice for others who plan to hike it? Let us know in the comments! After a brisk hike on an autumn day, check off some of the best things to do in Rhode Island in the fall off of your bucket list. Don’t forget to take your camera.
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.
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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.
