Kick Off Spring In Rhode Island With These 10 Scenic Hikes Under One Mile
Don’t you just love springtime in Rhode Island? With the warm weather and sunny days upon us, you’ll want to start enjoying some much-needed time in the great outdoors. If you’ve spent way too many hours on the couch during the winter, you’ll want to ease back onto the trails. At less than one mile each, these 10 short scenic hikes are just the thing you need to kick off your spring! They are also some of the best hikes in Rhode Island.
The 0.8-mile trail at the Claire D. McIntosh Wildlife Refuge is completely handicap accessible. The wooden boardwalk leads through the lush marsh and out towards the Narragansett Bay. The trail ends at a stunning overlook where you can take in the expansive water views. This wildlife refuge is an ideal place to go if you're looking for easy trails in Rhode Island. Find this lovely boardwalk trail at 1401 Hope St., Bristol, RI 02809.
Paradise Valley Park has just about a 1/2 mile of trails to explore. Hike through fields or alongside the babbling stream to enjoy the spring weather. Find the lovely park at 43 Prospect Ave., Middletown, Rhode Island 02842.
Waterfall chasing has never been easier. Take the 0.8-mile trail through the woodland to view the Hunt Mills Dam and Waterfall. The spring thaw heightens the impressiveness of this water feature. It's one of the most scenic hikes in Rhode Island. Find the parking lot for this short trail at Hunts Mill Rd., Rumford, RI 02916.
Visit the ExploreRI.org website to learn more about Hunts Mills.
Choose between two short trails in this delightful forest each at under one mile. Combine both to make a longer hike that is just a wee bit over one mile. Fairytale footbridges and a gurgling stream create a quiet respite from the outside world. Some of the best hikes in Rhode Island are at Mowry Conservation Area. Find the natural area at 199 Old Forge Rd., Smithfield, RI 02917.
Explore forested wetlands all from the comfort of a beautiful boardwalk trail. Stretching for just over 1/2 mile, this trail is handicap accessible. And if you're looking for easy hikes in Rhode Island, this one is perfect. Find the charming boardwalk at 29 Meetinghouse Ln., Little Compton, RI 02837.
Located on the Hunt River in southern Rhode Island, this refuge is a gem. Enjoy the 1/2-mile trail with water views, woods, and wetlands. Access the trail at Davisville Rd., East Greenwich, RI 02818.
Stroll alongside the Narragansett Bay on this one-mile walking path. Paved with asphalt, the trail is easy to navigate and handicap-accessible. It's one of the most fascinating hiking trails in Rhode Island and you'll get to see the remains of several amusement park rides that stood here long ago. Find Rocky Point State Park at 33 Rocky Point Ave., Warwick, RI 02889.
The woodland walk takes you through the forest as you meander alongside the remnants of old stone walls. Enjoy the quiet and beauty of this enchanting 1/2-mile trail. Discover the trailhead at 125 Mitchell's Ln., Portsmouth, RI 02871.
Visit the ExploreRI.org website to learn more about Albro Woods.
Hike through the gorgeous salt marsh at this wildlife refuge. A gentle 1/2-mile trail leads to Winnapaug Pond where you'll have the chance to check out the local bird population. It's one of the most scenic hikes in Rhode Island. Explore the nature preserve at 102 Shore Rd., Westerly, RI 02891.
This one-mile scenic wooded trail follows the bed of an old railroad line. Pass along the shore of Stillwater Pond and Capron Pond as you take your hike. Park in the gravel lot off Farnum Pike (SR104/5) between Washington Highway (SR 116) and Stump Pond dam.
Stillwater Scenic Trail, Smithfield, RI 02917, USA
Which of these short scenic hikes have you taken? Do you have any other best hikes in Rhode Island to add to this list? To enjoy the breezes of the waterfront, enjoy strolling on these six picturesque paths.
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes In Rhode Island
April 17, 2022
Melissa M.
Are there any waterfalls in Rhode Island?
While the Ocean State is relatively flat, there are several waterfalls you can find. Take our Ultimate Waterfalls Rhode Trip In Rhode Island and discover several falls like Ponaganset Falls in Scituate, Robin Hollow Pond Falls in Cumberland, and more.
What are the most kid-friendly hikes in Rhode Island?
One of the best places to go camping, mostly because it’s right by the ocean, is Fisherman’s Memorial State Park in Point Judith. With nearly 200 campsites and endless views, this will be your favorite campground.
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