The best walks and hikes in Providence County

The Mary Mowry Trail to Ken Weber Trail Loop offers a delightful easy hike through the Wolf Hill Forest Preserve, covering 3.9 miles (6.3 km) with 613 feet (187 metres) of elevation gain. You can typically complete this journey in about 1 hour and 50 minutes, making it a perfect outing for a morning or afternoon. The route takes you through diverse terrain, from lush hemlock and pine forests to sections with immense boulders and rock outcroppings, particularly along the Ken Weber Trail. Keep an eye out for the picturesque views of the Stillwater Reservoir and the Woonasquatucket River as you go.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is easily accessible within the Wolf Hill Forest Preserve in Smithfield, Rhode Island. Parking is generally available, but it's always wise to arrive earlier on busy days. Dogs are welcome to join you on the trails, though remember to check for any specific leash regulations. Be mindful that some rocky sections, especially on the Mary Mowry Trail, can become slippery when wet, so choose your footwear carefully.

What truly sets this loop apart is its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Beyond the scenic forests and river views, you'll discover remnants of an 18th-century forge and sawmill, offering a tangible connection to the region's past. In spring and summer, a charming miniature waterfall cascades through an old dam, adding another delightful feature to this popular trail. It's a great option for those seeking a rewarding outdoor experience with a touch of local history.

The Sprague Farm Town Forest Loop offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through diverse forest types, including an Atlantic White Cedar wetland, and past open fields. You'll encounter charming stone slab bridges crossing streams, and the path is often lined with vibrant wildflowers and deep green moss. While generally flat, expect some rocky sections and roots underfoot, and be prepared for muddy spots, especially after rain.

This easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) loop, with a gentle 142 feet (43 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely outing, typically taking around 1 hour and 35 minutes. Parking is available at the trailhead, making access straightforward. It's a great option for families and dog owners, but remember sturdy shoes are a must due to varied terrain.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail is rich in history, passing by crumbling stone walls and an old cemetery that hint at its past as a working farm. This Glocester Land Trust preserve is a haven for wildlife, with a 2009 BioBlitz identifying nearly 1,000 species, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife spotting and a unique natural feature in Rhode Island.

The Buck Hill and Benson Mountain Trail Loop offers a delightful blend of scenery, winding through peaceful wooded areas, past wetlands, and alongside agricultural land. You'll traverse mixed-surface paths, some rocky sections, and even doubletrack, with notable features like Wallum Lake and groves of hemlock and mountain laurel. This moderate 4.8-mile (7.7 km) hike, with 214 feet (65 metres) of elevation gain, is a great way to spend about 2 hours and 1 minute immersed in nature, offering a varied and engaging experience.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible without specific permits or fees mentioned. Parking is typically available at the trailhead, making it easy to start your adventure. Since it's a multi-use area, you might encounter mountain bikers or disc golf players, so stay aware of your surroundings. This route is well-suited for active individuals or families looking for a rewarding outdoor experience that doesn't demand an entire day.

One of the most unique aspects of this trail is the opportunity for a Three-State Crossing, allowing you to briefly step through Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut all within a single hike. The area is also a significant wildlife haven, with dedicated nesting boxes for wood ducks and marshes attracting various wetland species, making it excellent for birdwatching. The trail integrates into a broader network, intersecting with paths like the Midstate Trail, adding to its regional significance.

The Ponaganset Covered Bridge Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a mix of wooded areas and open fields, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You'll traverse a well-groomed path, mostly packed stone dust, which means fewer roots and rocks underfoot. The route's standout feature is the charming handcrafted covered bridge, a picturesque landmark that adds character to your walk, along with several smaller bridges over seasonal streams.

This 1.8-mile (2.9 km) loop, with a gentle 83 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 46 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for families or those new to hiking, offering a pleasant experience without significant challenge. Located behind Ponaganset High School in Glocester, Rhode Island, the trail is open to the public outside of school events, making it a convenient option for a spontaneous outing.

While generally easy, the trail does include some noticeable inclines and descents, including a short steep section, providing a bit of a workout. The scenery shifts between dense pine woods and open fields, making it enjoyable across seasons, from lush spring greenery to vibrant fall colors. It's a great way to experience the natural features of the Glocester area.

Discover the easy Seekonk Sanctuary via Seekonk Meadows route, a pleasant hike spanning 2.4 miles (3.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 42 feet (13 metres). You can expect to complete this tranquil journey in about 58 minutes, immersing yourself in expansive meadows and lush greenery. As you walk, the trail offers serene views, particularly around Gammino Pond, providing a peaceful escape into nature.

When planning your visit, remember that the trails are open from dawn until dusk, giving you ample time to explore. You are welcome to bring your pets along, but please keep them on a leash for the safety and comfort of all visitors. A convenient picnic area is located right at the trailhead, perfect for enjoying a snack before or after your hike.

This unique area was once a landfill, now beautifully transformed into a vibrant natural space. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species, butterflies, and turtles, making it an excellent spot for nature observation. The transformation of this land into a conservation area highlights a successful effort to reclaim and restore natural habitats for the community to enjoy.

Step onto the Burrillville Bike Path for a refreshing 3.1-mile (5.1 km) hike that feels like a gentle escape into nature. This easy route, with only 73 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through forested land and wetlands, offering a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy bird calls. The main paved section connects Harrisville and Pascoag, but a dirt spur to Duck Pond adds a touch of rugged exploration, where you might spot small fish and frogs in warmer months.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is accessible year-round. Parking is typically available at the trailheads in Harrisville or Pascoag. The main path is notably family-friendly, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, making it an inclusive option for a 1 hour and 17 minutes outing. Consider visiting in summer to find wild blueberries along the way.

As a rail-to-trail conversion, this route offers a unique, level path through a natural setting, providing a safe alternative to busy roads for pedestrians and cyclists. The unpaved spur to Duck Pond, though rough in spots, highlights the trail's dual nature, blending easy accessibility with opportunities for more natural exploration. It's a valuable community asset, connecting two villages with a pleasant, scenic corridor.

The Snake Den Loop offers an easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You will follow wide paths that wind through forest ground, eventually opening up to views of local farmland. This route is a manageable 1.7 miles (2.8 km) long, with a gentle elevation gain of just 53 feet (16 metres), making it an ideal choice for a relaxed 43-minute walk.

When planning your visit, you will find parking conveniently located near the trailhead within Snake Den State Park. This trail is generally accessible throughout the year, and you won't need any special permits or have to pay fees to enjoy your hike. It's a great option if you are looking for an uncomplicated outdoor activity without extensive preparation.

As you explore the Snake Den Loop, keep an eye out for historical elements like abandoned tractors and old stone walls, which hint at the area's farming past. One section of the park provides an impressive overlook, offering expansive views of western Johnston and Scituate. This trail stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, all within an easy-to-navigate loop.

Embark on an easy hike along the Moshassuck River Preserve Blue Trail Loop, a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) route that takes just under an hour, around 56 minutes, to complete. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 145 feet (44 metres) as you wander through a lush New England hardwood forest, shaded by towering oak and maple trees. The trail closely follows the Moshassuck River, providing a serene, wild atmosphere where you can pause by the water's edge. Keep an eye out for the impressive giant glacial boulders scattered along the path, adding a unique geological touch to your journey.

This accessible route is open year-round during daylight hours, making it a convenient escape whenever you need a quick nature break. Located only eight miles from downtown Providence, the Moshassuck River Preserve is easy to reach for a spontaneous outdoor adventure. Be prepared for potentially muddy or wet sections, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is highly recommended to ensure a comfortable walk.

Beyond the natural beauty, the trail offers a glimpse into local history with a historic cemetery featuring scattered grave markers. This adds a distinctive character to your walk, blending nature with heritage. Birdwatching is also a popular activity here, particularly during the spring migration, offering a chance to spot various species in their natural habitat.

Embark on the Moshassuck River Blue Trail Loop, an easy 1.5 miles (2.5 km) hike that takes about 39 minutes to complete. You will gain 101 feet (31 metres) as you explore a diverse New England hardwood forest. Expect varied terrain with small hills, rocky sections, and multiple stream crossings, all under a shady canopy of mature oak and hickory trees. Keep an eye out for the Moshassuck River winding alongside parts of the trail, adding to the picturesque scenery.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as this hidden gem is just eight miles from downtown Providence, making it easily accessible for a quick outdoor adventure. General parking is available at the preserve, offering convenient access to the trailhead. While there are no specific warnings regarding permits or seasonal closures, be prepared for varied trail conditions, including potentially muddy spots near stream crossings, especially after rain.

This route offers a rich and picturesque natural setting, distinguished by unique landmarks. As you hike, you will encounter an impressive old stone dam from the 1800s, a historical remnant adding character to the landscape. You will also spot large glacial boulders, some balancing on smaller stones, which are fascinating natural features that set this preserve apart in the region.