With A Waterfall And Boardwalk, The Little-Known Vin Gormley Trail In Rhode Island Is Unexpectedly Magical
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on March 09, 2024(Originally published April 19, 2023)
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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.
A stroll along the Vin Gormley Trail in Rhode Island offers endless opportunities for photos and quiet moments of reflection. With an abundance of lush green, a cascading waterfall, and a picturesque boardwalk, the trail gives off a magical, fairy-tale vibe that you really have to experience to appreciate. Perhaps even better, it’s picture-perfect in all seasons, making it one of the best hiking trails in Rhode Island.
A magical adventure awaits along the 7.8-mile Vin Gormley Trail, a moderately challenging trail that wanders through Burlingame Management Area.
Burlingame State Park is perhaps best known for its campground. If you're up for a rustic adventure, consider booking a cabin or a tent site. The Rhode Island campground is open seasonally.
Set aside at least three hours for your journey along this picturesque path that's dog-friendly. Just make sure your pup is on a leash.
One of the most scenic hiking trails in Rhode Island, the Vin Gormley Trail is also popular with mountain bikers, so keep that in mind as you're hiking.
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Be prepared to deal with a variety of terrain, too, as the trail passes through lush green woods and onto the road several times.
Your best bet, as you trek along this hiking trail in Rhode Island, is to wear a pair of sturdy hiking shoes that you don't mind getting wet and dirty.
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Stay alert as you navigate some inclines, deal with muddy patches after a rainfall, and keep an eye out for roots jutting out of the ground.
If you prefer solitude, consider heading out during the colder months. The trail tends to be quite quiet and serene during the winter.
Did you know that Rhode Island is home to a lone covered bridge? The Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge is in Foster, and it's a popular stop for Rhode Islanders and visitors traveling through.
If you have a moment or two, watch the gentle tumbling of a waterfall into a clear pool of water.
If you're always online Googling "waterfalls near me," you've just found a beautiful one.
Before you set off, make sure you lather on the bug spray, and bring it with you, too. You'll need a sufficient supply of water, snacks, and sunscreen. Sturdy, comfy hiking shoes are also a must.
Have you followed the Vin Gormley Trail in Rhode Island? Do you agree that it’s one of the best hikes in Rhode Island? Share your experience in the comments! Drink in more natural beauty on the Steere Hill & Heritage Park Trail in Chepachet, and find more of the best hiking trails in Rhode Island on All Trails.
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Best Hiking Trails In Rhode Island
Beth Price-Williams|April 24, 2023
Are there any hiking trails that lead to waterfalls in Rhode Island?
The picturesque Vin Gormley Trail leads to a beautiful waterfall in Rhode Island. Some of the best hikes in Rhode Island, in fact, lead to waterfalls, including:
Ben Utter Trail, a scenic Rhode Island hiking trail, will lead you straight to the awe-inspiring Stepstone Falls, perhaps the most well-known waterfall in Rhode Island. The 2.7-mile trail winds through Arcadia Management Area.
Follow the Blackstone River Bikeway Trail in Woonsocket to experience a waterfall and a cascade created by a dam.
The Turner Loop Trail meanders through East Providence and passes a gorgeous cascade.
Set off on the short but sweet half-mile Hunt’s Mill Trail. Snag a seat at the picnic table near the waterfall, and have a bite to eat.