12 Scenic Trails To Explore In Rhode Island, One For Each Month Of The Year
Are you hoping to get out and about in nature a little more this year than perhaps you were able to in the last? Maybe some nice hikes sound right up your alley now. Well, you’re in luck because there are over 100 stunning hiking opportunities dotted all over The Ocean State, each with its own advantages. Check out this list of 12 scenic trails in Rhode Island, one per month to get going on your adventure planning.
This little loop in the Mowry Conservation Area in Smithfield is only .8 miles so it makes for an ideal jaunt to start your year off right. Along the way, you'll encounter beautiful 18th-century stonework as well as this gorgeous bridge extending over a river.
Mowry Conservation Area, 41-199 Old Forge Rd, Smithfield, RI 02917, USA
Enjoy one of the best trails in Rhode Island with the whole family along the 1.3 mile loop Grassy Point Trail in Charleston. The hike is doable for all levels of ability and offers impressive views of Ninnigret Pond. Even in a month as cold and grey as February, there is lots of beauty to be seen here.
Grassy Point Trail, Grassy Pt Trl, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA
Located in Bristol, the stunning Mount Hope Farm Trail features bay views, a pond, and 2.5 miles worth of satisfying hiking for all abilities. Since this hike is relatively easy, it's perfect for when the weather is still a little chilly and you may not be as interested in vigorous exercise.
Mt Hope Farm, 250 Metacom Ave, Bristol, RI 02809, USA
Tucked within the Rockville Management and Public Fishing area, the 4.5-mile out-and-back Long Pond Woods Trail is rated as moderately difficult. The hike may be a bit strenuous, and it's rocky, so it's best saved for clear weather in Spring. But it is more than worth the effort in order to experience the impressive views!
Audubon Long Pond Woods Wildlife Refuge - Secondary/RIDEM Trailhead, Canonchet Rd, Hopkinton, RI 02833, USA
Moving along with this list of the best Rhode Island hiking trails, we come to the Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge Trail.. At 3.3 miles, this loop trail is not too long and not too short, and perfect for all skill levels. The area is known for local wildlife populations so keep your eyes peeled for birds, deer, rabbits, and other creatures.
Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge - Parking, 99 Pardon Joslin Rd, Exeter, RI 02822, USA
This 3.8 mile trail in Roger Williams Park in Providence is rated as moderate difficulty and features stunning views of a lake and water features. With lots of open space to enjoy the fresh air and soak up some sun, this is an ideal summer hike.
Roger Williams Park, Pine Hill Ave, Providence, RI 02907, USA
Every Rhode Islander knows that Bristol is one of the most fun places to be in July with evening concerts and the massive fourth of July parade, together making this quaint town into something spectacular. The 1.1 mile-long Claire D. McIntosh Wildlife Refuge Trail is a laid-back boardwalk stroll perfect for the entire family. It is also packed with stunning wildflowers in the spring and summer.
Claire D. McIntosh Wildlife Refuge, 1401 Hope St, Bristol, RI 02809, USA
The Blackstone River Bikeway is a whopping 18 miles in total, but most people pick a small chunk to explore. With a lake, stunning waterfall, and a large bridge, this is a great location to soak up the sun with loved ones and among the best trails in Rhode Island!
Blackstone River Bikeway, Cumberland, RI 02864, USA
Lincoln Woods Park is notorious for its fall leaves, so this 3.1 mile loop is a breathtaking way to kick off the fall season. The trail is suitable for all levels of ability and there is a gorgeous lake to observe. You may want to pack a picnic so you can enjoy the views with a treat.
Lincoln Woods Road, Lincoln Woods Rd, Lincoln, RI 02865, USA
Another beautiful spot to leaf peep is along the King Benson Preserve Trail. This 3 mile loop trail is doable for all levels of hikers and features a breathtaking tunnel of trees to discover as you hike.
King/Benson Preserve, 2203 Boston Neck Rd, Saunderstown, RI 02874, USA
11. November: Carolina Management Area North Loop Trail
At 2.4 miles, this loop trail located in Richmond is perfect for the winter time. Make sure to wear some good insulated hiking boots, but this trail is marked for all skill levels and can definitely still be done with some snow on the ground, which will only make the setting more beautiful.
Carolina Management Area Parking, Richmond, RI 02812, USA
End your year right on this 3.2 mile loop trail in the George B. Parker Woodland Wildlife Refuge. You can find some old foundations along this walk as long as rivers that sparkle so beautifully when frozen over.
Audubon George Parker Woodland Wildlife Refuge, 1670 Maple Valley Rd, Coventry, RI 02827, USA
Hiking is so much fun in all seasons! Have you embarked upon any of these awesome Rhode Island hiking trails? If so, which were your favorites and why? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments section below. If not, don’t these all seem like awesome treks to take? Which one (or more) are you most excited about?
If you’re looking for more great outdoor adventures in Rhode Island, this list of 10 free activities could also be helpful to you.
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Outdoor Adventures in Rhode Island
December 21, 2022
Lysa Allman-Baldwin
Where else can we find scenic trails in Rhode Island?
The good thing is, that there are scores of scenic trails in Rhode Island, from long to short, difficult to easy, so you’ll never lack an abundance of options. A few worthwhile options include:
We’re looking for activities in Rhode Island that are budget-friendly.
If you’re keeping a mindful eye on your wallet, you’ll be happy to know that there is a wealth of budget-friendly. Grab the family and your friends and try a few of these fun adventures:
Where are some of the best places to take kids in Rhode Island?
The Ocean State is a great state in which to raise a family or embark upon a family vacation. Here are a few of the best places to take kids in Rhode Island:
