Fall is a favorite time for hiking. The air is cooler, bugs are less abundant, and the scenery transforms from lush green to a kaleidoscope of bold color. If you want to make the most out of the fall foliage season, you’ll need to gear up soon, the leaves are predicted to be at their brightest between October 1st – October 20th in Rhode Island. Here are nine leaf-peeping hikes that are guaranteed to give you a front-row seat to the spectacular autumn show.
1. Tillinghast Pond Management Area, West Greenwich
Surrounded by protected forest, Tillinghast Pond provides a quiet beauty and serenity. The 2.3-mile loop circles the pond giving you plenty of chances to photograph the bold fall colors reflected in the water. Address; Plain Road, West Greenwich, RI 02817
2. Lincoln Woods State Park, Lincoln
The 627-acre Lincoln Woods State Park will have no shortage of gorgeous fall colors this year. With multiple hiking trails winding through the woods and around Olney Pond, you can spend hours admiring the views. Address: 2 Manchester Print Works Road, Lincoln, RI 02865
3. Roger Williams Park, Providence
For those looking for the scenery of the country within the city of Providence, Roger Williams Park is the perfect destination. The 435-acre park features 100-acres of ponds and plenty of easy walking trails for the whole family. Address: 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, RI 02907
4. Weetamoo Woods, Tiverton
A loop trail of just over five miles will lead you on a scenic forest adventure at Weetamoo Woods. Pack a picnic and enjoy it a High Rock where you can soak in the colorful scenery at the overlook. Address: E Road, Tiverton, RI 02878
5. Arcadia Management Area, Hope Valley
The state's largest recreational area is the perfect place to head out on the trails. Feel the crunch of the leaves beneath your feet as the canopy overhead showcases the reds, oranges, and yellows of the season. Address: 260 Arcadia Road, Hope Valley, RI 02823
6. Glen Rock Reservoir, West Kingstown
The area surrounding the historical Kenyon's Grist Mill is particularly eye-catching during autumn. A hike around the reservoir is an easy way to take in sweeping views of the changing leaves. Address: 21 Glen Rock Road, West Kingston, RI
7. Wickaboxet Wildlife Management Area, West Greenwich
Really make the most of your autumn outing by taking the 8-mile trail through the Wickaboxet Wildlife Management Area. Don't be intimidated, the trail is easy and offers the leaf-peeping opportunities you're looking for. Address: 102 Wickaboxet Drive, West Greenwich, RI 02817
8. Fort Nature Refuge, North Smithfield
This hiker's oasis has miles and miles of trails leading to three gorgeous ponds. Immerse yourself in the colors of fall as sunlight streams through the colored leaves above. Keep your eyes open for beaver, deer, otter, frogs, and more at this refuge teeming with wildlife. Address: 1445 Providence Pike, North Smithfield, RI 02896
9. Ell Pond Preserve, Hopkinton
The trail at Ell Pond Preserve is the most challenging on this list but boy is it worth it. Hike to the overlook and you'll have a jaw-dropping view of the deep blue water framed by vibrant fall foliage on both sides. Address: 445 Old Rockville Road #433, Hopkinton, RI 02833
Where are your favorite places to take a leaf-peeping hike? Share them in the comments section below or in our Rhode Island Nature Lovers Group on Facebook. We look forward to seeing your fall photos!
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