Whispers of the past can be heard all through Rhode Island, whether we’re in the bustling big city, a charming small town, or exploring in the middle of nature. That’s what makes hiking so amazing. We sometimes run into remnants of the past that we never expected to find. This picturesque trail in Rhode Island, for example, passes stunning natural scenery and leads to an abandoned summer camp. It is one of the most fascinating abandoned places in Rhode Island! 

Be prepared for somewhat of a challenge - and plenty of inclines...
All Trails/Margie Vargas
...along the Shelter Trail to the Penny Hill Cutoff Loop Trail, which is among the best hikes in Rhode Island.
Snagging a moderate rating from a major hiking website...
All Trails/Shawna Simas
...the 6.5-mile trail meanders through the beautiful Arcadia State Management Area.
You'll definitely want to wear a pair of sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water along, and lather on the bug spray.
All Trails/Glenn Flosdorf
The ticks can be thick during the warmer months, so be prepared.
Hikers assert that the trail, which includes a few pretty waterfalls, is well-marked and takes nearly three hours to complete.
All Trails/Carrie Readey
The highlight of the trail is...drum roll please...
All Trails/Adam Ludvigson
...the ruins of an abandoned summer camp! How totally cool is that?!
Take your time to explore the ruins and snap some photos.
All Trails/Adam Marcotta
You'll also pass an old water tower which is a relic from a bygone era.
The trail is popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders.
All Trails/Adam Ludvigson
If you're hiking during hunting season, you must wear daylight fluorescent orange.
You might even want to bring along a picnic for a leisurely meal.
All Trails/Roger Barthelet
Enjoying it in the quiet of nature is so pleasing to the senses.
There are several websites where you can get more information and see photos of this trail.
All Trails/Rick LaBanca
However, one of the best places to gather the info that you need would be on the official website of Arcadia Management Area, which falls under the State of Rhode Island Division of Parks & Recreation.

Have you ever hiked along this awesome trail? If so, which part was your favorite? Do you have a favorite trail in Rhode Island that you would recommend? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

You might also be interested in checking out these 11 abandoned places in Rhode Island that are being reclaimed by nature.

If you’re still in the mood for more Rhode Island adventures, take a look at this video:

 

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Rhode Island Adventures

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | April 14, 2023

Where can we find other abandoned places in Rhode Island?

  • A former Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) station in Pawtucket/Central Falls is a fascinating place that has been abandoned since the 1980s.
  • Fort Wetherill, located in Jamestown, is an abandoned military fort offering stunning rocky cliff views of the town.
  • An old stone house located in Narragansett is an abandoned stone structure in a secluded area next to a sandy area of Scarborough Beach.

Read on to learn more about some of the other interesting, abandoned places in Rhode Island.

Where can we go kayaking in Rhode Island?

  • The Narrow River has several kayak launch sites that meander through the South Kingston area and beyond.
  • The Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge located in Charlestown features lagoons and salt ponds that are perfect for kayaking.
  • The Providence River Walk gives kayakers spectacular views of the city.

Read on to learn more about some of the other wonderful places to go kayaking in Rhode Island.

Where can we find bed and breakfast inns in Rhode Island?

  • The Main House of the Margin Street Inn located in Westerly was built in 1849.
  • The Bradford-Diamond Norris House located in Bristol is a beloved landmark built circa 1792 and situated in the heart of Bristol's Waterfront National Register Historic District.
  • The Cliffside Inn in Newport is an elegantly restored B&B featuring tons of spectacular architectural detailing throughout.

Read on to learn more about some of the other charming bed and breakfast inns in Rhode Island.

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Arcadia Management Area, 260 Arcadia Rd, Hope Valley, RI 02823, USA