Are you into discovering hidden tracks and hiking beautiful landscapes? Of course, you are. Well, the great news is that you’ve come to the right place.
With its relaxed coastal vibe, stunning beaches, nature reserves, magical forest areas, waterfalls and lush green trails, the Ocean State is a hiker’s dream and more.
For such a small state, Rhode Island’s environment couldn’t be more diverse and its people more dedicated to preserving the state’s natural heritage and beauty. They say good things come in small packages after all…
Rhode Island is full of panoramic views, diverse wildlife, more than 400 miles of coastline and more than 100 public and private beaches. There are city, lake, beach, forest and historic trails. Far too many to fit into one post.
So, we’re narrowing down the top 4 gorgeous places to go hiking in Rhode Island.
Let’s get into it!
Read next: The Benefits of Hiking for Our Brains
Block Island
Catch a 55-minute ferry from Point Judith (Galilee), on the south coast to reach Block Island.
From laid-back little New Harbor, you can walk to several beaches, the Victorian Southeast Lighthouse or the 1867 North Lighthouse. Also, check out Old Harbor – the island’s only village.
The Greenways Trail, which contains 25 continuous miles of hiking, allows you to soak up the island’s natural beauty in all its wonder. The 17 miles of pristine beaches are also great for walking.
For TV fanatics out there, Block Island features prominently on Showtime’s hit show ‘The Affair’
Arcadia Management Area
As the state’s largest and most magnificent recreational area, the Arcadia Management Area has fantastic hiking trails that are not only diverse, but magical. The whopping 14,000 forested acres have dozens of trail options.
With so much choice, there’s a trail for everyone. If you’re planning to go hiking in Rhode Island, you can’t miss this one.
Read next: The Top 5 Longest Hiking Trails in the U.S.
Lincoln Woods State Park
The picturesque Lincoln Woods State Park abounds with hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty. We recommend the 3.4 mile Lincoln Woods Trail.
If you need to cool down on your hike, you can swim at the fresh water beach. Perfect!
Newport Cliffwalk
The Newport Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile elevated, winding path along Newport’s shoreline with breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay, its mansions and the rocky coves below.
The public walkway runs from Bailey’s Beach to First Beach
The trail skirts the edges of some of the city’s mansions, including Beechwood, Rosecliff, Marble House, and The Breakers. The northern end of the walk, beginning at Memorial Blvd is paved and easy; the southern end of the walk has unpaved sections and rugged paths.
The exotic Tea House at Marble House stands just above the path.
Read next: The Best Hiking Tips for Beginners
Final thoughts
Whether you want to see the state from a new perspective, leave civilization behind for a few hours, take some amazing photographs or get some exercise, hiking in Rhode Island is just the ticket.
Check out our Northeast hiking section for more information and tips on hiking in the area.
