15 Incredible Natural Wonders In Rhode Island That Defy Explanation
Melissa Mahoney
Author
There’s no denying the beauty of the Ocean State. I should know — I grew up here. Between its coastline, wildlife refuges, parks, forests, and fields, there are so many natural places in Rhode Island to explore as well as ways to explore, be it by car, on foot, by bike, or even by boat. However, the following natural wonders in Rhode Island have the “wow” factor that will leave you in awe. See for yourself!
Best Gorges & Canyons In Rhode Island
While there are hills aplenty in Rhode Island, there really isn’t much in the way of canyons and gorges. However, there are a couple of wondrous spots — one close to the Rhode Island-Massachusetts border and the other in Middletown.
1. Blackstone Gorge (North Smithfield)
Straddling the border of Rhode Island and Massachusetts, Blackstone Gorge is located in the Blackstone River Valley. The Rhode Island portion of the gorge can be found by the border in North Smithfield. Take a short hike to Rolling Dam where you can view a man-made waterfall and the river below.
2. Purgatory Chasm (Middletown)
Purgatory Chasm is a geological wonder in Rhode Island. At approximately 10 feet wide and 120 feet long, its location along the sea allows for water to continuously move through it and change it over time. You can either view it from the town's Second Beach (also known as Sachuest Beach) or go for a short walk to the top where you can view it from above.
Best Caves In Rhode Island
As with canyons and gorges, there aren’t too many caves around the Ocean State either. However, there are a few small ones in one area you may want to check out in my hometown of Smithfield.
3. Connors Farm (Smithfield)
Rhode Island just isn't known for caves but there are a few small ones hiding out in Smithfield. Taking a hike through the lovely 66-acreage of Connors Farm Conservation Area is a wonderful time spent outdoors. Kids will love the rock formations as well as the small caves along the trail.
Best Waterfalls In Rhode Island
While Rhode Island is best known for the water that surrounds it, there are many places inland like ponds, lakes, and even waterfalls. Here are a few waterfalls you should check out as they are some of the best nature spots in Rhode Island.
4. Round Top Fishing Area (Burrillville)
If you love fishing, you have to spend some time at the Round Top Fishing Area in Burrillville. This fishing spot is stocked seasonally with fish, but what's even better is the wide cascade in Round Top Brook.
5. Stepstone Falls (West Greenwich)
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Rhode Island has to be Stepstone Falls. Located within the Acadia Management Area, the cascade is reachable via the 2.7-mile Ben Utter Trail.
6. Browning Mill Pond (Richmond)
Created by two dams, the waterfall at Browning Mill Pond has a drop of approximately 20 feet. Also located within the vast expanse of the Arcadia Management Area, your time is well spent here. In fact, some of the best nature in Rhode Island can be spotted here.
Best Overlooks & Scenic Vistas In Rhode Island
Some of the best scenery in Rhode Island can be viewed from a scenic overlook. Get a bird’s eye view of the state’s stunning landscape and seascape from these vantage points:
7. Cliff Walk (Newport)
When you visit Rhode Island, taking a stroll on Newport's Cliff Walk is practically mandatory. On one side of this 3.5-mile walkway, you'll see the Atlantic Ocean, coves, and pristine beaches and the other side will give you views of the city's famous Gilded Age mansions. Not only is this considered one of the most beautiful walks in RI but in New England as well. It’s actually a great addition to your bucket list if you’ve never been before.
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8. Mohegan Bluffs (New Shoreham)
Mohegan Bluffs tower 200 feet over the beach and the Atlantic below, giving visitors panoramic vistas for miles. You simply cannot beat the beautiful views from atop the bluffs. However, if you want to see the bluffs from below, you can take a long set of stairs down to the beach. Keep in mind that you'll have to take those same stairs back up when you're done gazing upon this spectacular natural wonder in Rhode Island.
9. Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy (Providence)
Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy is an urban park in Providence that's ideal for bird watching and must-see nature in Rhode Island. Best of all, you can hike to the summit of the hill to see Providence from a different perspective.
Best Rock Formations In Rhode Island
There are so many unique geological wonders around Rhode Island. Have you seen any of the incredible rock formations around the state? Some of the best rock formations in Rhode Island are natural wonders and can be found in the following locations:
10. Hanging Rock (Middletown)
For some of the best nature in Rhode Island, you have to visit Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown. Home to numerous bird species and other wildlife, an environmental education center, and several trails, this is a worthwhile way to spend time outdoors. One of the preserve's most remarkable features, however, is Hanging Rock, a massive rock formation you can discover along Gray Craig Trail. This geological wonder is jaw-dropping especially when it first comes into view.
11. Canonchet Brook Preserve (Hopkinton)
For a plethora of rock formations in Rhode Island, a hike through Canonchet Brook Preserve is a must. With plenty of rocks left behind by glaciers thousands of years ago, there is so much to see. Kids and adults alike enjoy this trail.
12. Snake Den (Johnston)
If you're looking for an extraordinary hike in Northern Rhode Island, I can't recommend Snake Den State Park enough. Not only is this one of my favorite spots to hike due to how quiet it is but there are some incredible rock formations along the main trail, Snake Den Loop. With towering boulders and outcroppings, there's nothing boring about this trail!
Unique Natural Wonders In Rhode Island
There are certain natural wonders that cannot be categorized because they stand out all on their own. Check out the most unique natural wonders in Rhode Island:
13. Rodman's Hollow (New Shoreham)
To see some incredible natural beauty in Rhode Island, a day trip to Block Island is always a good idea. In addition to Mohegan Bluffs, you may also want to visit Rodman's Hollow, a glacial outwash basin. Spanning 230 acres, this coastal preserve is home to bluffs, a pond, numerous plant species, and views galore.
14. Beavertail State Park (Jamestown)
In my opinion, Beavertail State Park is one of the top must-visit places in Rhode Island. Covering 153 acres at the southern tip of Conanicut Island, you'll have stunning views of Narragansett Bay. It's among one of the most picturesque, yet underrated, spots in New England.
15. Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge (Charlestown)
With its diversity of habitats and ecosystems, Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge is one of the top places for must-see nature in Rhode Island. Throughout the 787-acre wildlife refuge, you'll see wetlands, salt marshes, grasslands, swamps, and freshwater ponds. It's also an excellent spot for bird watching, if that's your thing.
Which of these natural wonders in Rhode Island have you visited? While the state is small, I feel like I’m constantly discovering something new every time I come back home to visit. What are your favorite natural attractions in Rhode Island? Let us know!
When visiting any of Rhode Island’s natural wonders, be sure you are prepared to explore especially if you’re going to hit the trails. Check out the hiking accessories on our Ultimate Hiking Packing List.
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