Best Trails in Rhode Island

Trying to find the best trails in Rhode Island? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Rhode Island, Washington County

01 :30 hrs
5.7 mi
74.06813 ft
Hard

Arcadia State Park is a popular place for mountain bikers and has been touted as the 'only' place to ride in Rhode Island. The park offers many different trails. This gem of a ride features short steep climbs, roots, rocks, mud, scenery, technical spots, twists and turns and much more. Be aware the hikers use these trails too. Also, the park is large and the trails aren't well marked, getting lost can happen. Make sure not to travel alone.

2

Rhode Island, Kent County

01 :30 hrs
4.2 mi
33.606216 ft
Moderate

Wickaboxet Management Area is a pristine and natural area, thick with forest. The trail is not well known so you will likely enjoy seclusion, which adds to the allure of the hike. The forest is full of different tree species, including ash, birch, maple, pine and oak. Wildlife that you may see along the trail include deer, raccoon, small critters and birds. One of the highlights of the trail is Rattlesnake ledge. Be apprised that the area is hunted, so during hunting season you will need to dress appropriately to be safe.

3

Rhode Island, Washington County

01 :54 hrs
5.5 mi
24.803938 ft
Moderate

The trail through Great Swamp Management Area (one of the largest freshwater swamps in the region) run through wet-land and upland woods, fields, and along vegetated and open waters. The habitats near the pond harbor frogs, kingfisher, pond turtles and osprey. Be apprised that only leashed dogs are permitted on this trail. Also, be aware that you will want to wear fluorescent orange during October-February, which is hunting season.

4

Connecticut, Windham County

03 :50 hrs
8.4 mi
58.043884 ft
Easy

George Washington Management Area offers around 4000 acres of beautiful wilderness. This skiing adventure loops through the heart of the park and features the forest of the area, Wilbur Pond, wildlife and an unnamed small pond. Wildlife that may be seen include cottontail rabbits, snowshoe hare, grey squirrel, white-tailed deer, fox, raccoon, muskrat, grouse, wild turkey, ring-necked pheasant, woodcock and waterfowl. Be apprised that dogs must be kept on a leash while on the trail.

5

Connecticut, Windham County

02 :58 hrs
8.4 mi
56.510284 ft
Hard

George Washington Management Area offers around 4000 acres of beautiful wilderness. This hiking adventure loops through the heart of the park and features the forest of the area, Wilbur Pond, wildlife and an unnamed small pond. Wildlife that may be seen include cottontail rabbits, snowshoe hare, grey squirrel, white-tailed deer, fox, raccoon, muskrat, grouse, wild turkey, ring-necked pheasant, woodcock and waterfowl. Be apprised that dogs must be kept on a leash while on the trail. Also, there is camping available at the George Washington Memorial Camping Area.

6

Rhode Island, Providence County

01 :02 hrs
4.1 mi
63.0496 ft
Hard

Lincoln Woods State Park is located relatively close to Providence Rhode Island, making this adventure excellent for city dwellers who don't want to travel far. This trail features great forest scenery, views of Olney Pond, technical declines, some rocky spots and one steep uphill climb (200 vertical feet in under 3/4 mile). Be aware that the trail becomes very muddy after a moderate-heavy rain. Also, the trail can be difficult to follow.

7

Rhode Island, Kent County

02 :04 hrs
5.7 mi
80.90204 ft
Hard

The Beach Pond State Park offers a scenic and quiet hiking experience. This adventure features Breakheart Pond, Upper Wood River, the forest and wildlife. Wildlife that may be seen include deer, wild-turkey, squirrel and a variety of birds. There are also a wide variety of bird species thay may be viewed here. Be apprised that dogs must be kept on a leash while on the trails. Also, the area is hunted, so it will be important to dress appropriately during the hunting season.

8

Rhode Island, Kent County

01 :37 hrs
4.6 mi
22.204727 ft
Moderate

Big River Management Area offers over 8,000 acres of beautiful wilderness area. Some of the features of this hike include deciduous, evergreen forest, wetland, wildlife and Campwell Millpond. Wildlife that may be seen include deer, fox, wild-turkey, squirrel, a variety of birds and racoon. Be apprised that dogs must be kept on a leash while in the area. Also, this area is hunted so wear appropriate gear during hunting seasons.

9

Rhode Island, Newport County

00 :51 hrs
2.5 mi
8.781045 ft
Easy

The features of this trail along the jagged rocky Sauchest Point include views overlooking Sachuest Bay, open waters of the Rhode Island Sound, the mouth of the Sakonnet River and wildlife. Wildlife that you may see include hawks, snowy owls, migrating osprey, swallows, an occasional harbor seal and other bird species. Be apprised that dogs must be kept on a leash while in the refuge. Also, be aware of poison ivy and biting insects.

10

Rhode Island, Kent County

01 :42 hrs
6.5 mi
17.79493 ft
Hard

The Big River Management Area is a relatively recent state park, created in the 1960's. There are many trails that explore every part of this rich and diverse natural area. This mountain biking adventure explores the northern most parts of the park, and the trail runs along a beautiful river in many places. Features of this ride include forest, wildlife and riverside scenery. Hikers also use this trail, so be careful, especially around corners. Also, be apprised that the area is hunted so wear appropriate colors during active hunting seasons.

See more adventures..

Explore complete list