This Pond Is Perfect For Easy Hiking And Bird Watching In Rhode Island
By Beth Price-Williams|Published January 17, 2024
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Spending time outdoors, no matter how long or how little, can sometimes be just what we need to help us tackle the rest of the day. There’s just something about the fresh air that can turn a day around, isn’t there? Even a short stroll around the block holds so much promise. If you’re short on time but feel like exploring somewhere new or lesser-known to you, head over to this picturesque pond in Westerly, Rhode Island.
Whether you're pressed for time or have hours to spare, you'll quickly discover that Lathrop Wildlife Refuge offers a slice of tranquility and plenty of breathtaking natural beauty.
Keep an eye out for the sign that alerts you that you've arrived at the parking lot of the wildlife refuge. You'll find ample parking, although the area can get quite crowded.
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted in the wildlife refuge.
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Snuggled on 86 acres along Winnapaug Pond, the wildlife area features a variety of landscapes - from freshwater wetlands and a salt marsh to coastal shrubland.
The wildlife refuge has just one short and sweet hiking trail. Spanning less than half a mile, the Lathrop Wildlife Refuge Trail will lead you along an easy path.
Most consider the trail more of a walking path that takes no longer than five minutes or so to complete. Be prepared for some mud after it rains and horse flies in the warmer months.
Kayaking is also popular on this pond in Westerly, Rhode Island.
Both the pond and the wildlife refuge are popular with birdwatchers, so keep an eye out for a variety of species. Willets, snowy egrets, yellow warblers, and Baltimore orioles all call the area home.
Have you been to Lathrop Wildlife Refuge, home to this beautiful pond in Westerly, Rhode Island? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! You’ve probably worked up a hearty appetite at the wildlife refuge, which gives you a good reason to head over to Cinder, one of the best restaurants in Westerly, Rhode Island.