5.0
(4)
81
riders
20
rides
Touring cycling in Sandy Acres Recreation Area offers diverse routes through forested paths, alongside rivers, and around scenic ponds. The area features a mix of mostly paved and some unpaved segments, connecting to the extensive network of the Big River State Management Area and the Washington Secondary Bike Path. This interconnected system provides varied terrain for cyclists, ranging from tranquil woodlands to riverside scenery and restored wetlands.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
riders
12.7km
00:43
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
14.8km
01:20
90m
90m
This moderate 9.2-mile gravel cycling loop around Tarbox Pond offers varied terrain, peaceful pond views, and wildlife in the Big River Mana

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1
riders
8.37km
00:44
70m
70m
Explore the Carr's Pond gravel loop in East Greenwich, a moderate 5.2-mile touring cycling route with scenic pond views.
17
riders
12.0km
01:04
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
18.4km
01:38
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Shoot the Moon is an easy, green rated trail in the Big River Management Area. It can get muddy after rain or snow, so plan accordingly.
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Originally this area was designated to be a reservoir in order to provide drinking water for the area. For whatever reason these plans never came to fruition and the 8,300-acre site has seen hikers, bikers, and motocross riders create dozens of trails around the forest, rivers, and ponds. Take your pick of trails but be sure to have your map downloaded since it's easy to get turned around with all the crisscrossing trails.
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Burnt Sawmill Road is an abandoned logging road running north-south through Big River State Management Area. It is mostly unpaved.
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There are a number of trails that pass through this section of the Big River State Management Area. Hoover Trail is one of the most popular paths, and it couples well with the dirt roads nearby to create different loops.
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Tarbox Pond is a beautiful 20 acre pond in Big River State Management Area. There are large white pines along the shore and aside from the traffic on Hopkins Hill Road this is a peaceful natural area.
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Beautiful views of the lake from the trail. Surrounded by woodlands and wetlands, providing opportunities for wildlife observation and enjoying the natural beauty.
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Beautiful trail in the heart of the Big River State Management Area.
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You might get one of the better views of Sweet Pond from here. There's a rideable "sort-of loop" around it, but the trail gets pretty far away from the water in places.
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There are 19 touring cycling routes available in Sandy Acres Recreation Area, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists.
The routes feature a mix of surfaces, from mostly paved sections to some unpaved segments, including gravel paths. You'll cycle through lush forested areas, alongside the Pawtuxet River, and around scenic ponds like Carr's Pond and Tarbox Pond.
Yes, Sandy Acres Recreation Area offers 14 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for a relaxed ride is the Coventry Reservoir loop from Merrill S. Whipple Conservation Area, which is 10 miles long and leads through woodlands.
For picturesque pond views, consider the Tarbox Pond gravel loop or the Carr's Pond gravel loop. Both offer beautiful scenery around their respective ponds and are rated as moderate difficulty.
Yes, many of the routes are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Coventry Reservoir loop from Merrill S. Whipple Conservation Area and the Hoover Trail loop from Centre of New England.
The area is rich in natural beauty, featuring serene forested paths, tranquil riverside scenery along the Pawtuxet River, and scenic views of ponds like Carr's Pond and Tarbox Pond. You might also spot various wildlife, including deer, fox, and wild turkeys, in these diverse habitats.
Yes, the area's trails often connect to the extensive network of the Big River State Management Area, providing additional loop options. The Washington Secondary Bike Path, a significant paved rail-trail, also runs parallel to the Pawtuxet River nearby, offering further accessible cycling paths.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 13 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil woodlands, scenic pond views, and the varied terrain that connects to larger trail systems.
While the region research mentions wildlife observation, specific regulations regarding dogs on bikes are not detailed. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash and ensure they are comfortable with cycling alongside you. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions.
The diverse landscapes of Sandy Acres Recreation Area, with its forests and ponds, make it enjoyable across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
While specific parking locations are not detailed for every route, the presence of routes like the Hoover Trail β Tarbox Pond loop from Exit 7 Park and Ride suggests designated parking areas are available at various access points.
Yes, there are 5 moderate touring cycling routes. The Tarbox Pond gravel loop, at 9.2 miles, and the Carr's Pond gravel loop, at 5.2 miles, are both excellent moderate options with scenic views.


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