There's nothing better than getting outside for some fresh air at any time of year. A sunny day may inspire you to get out and get moving. Below are some popular (and not so well known) walking and hiking trails in Rhode Island. Grab a pair of sunglasses and a friend (two-legged or four-legged!) and head to one of these great spots! Newport is a popular destination for tourists and Rhode Islanders alike! With so much to offer, it’s not hard to see why. From shops and restaurants, museums and the mansions, to beaches and ocean views, there’s something for everyone. One of the most popular stops is the Newport Cliff Walk. Over three miles long, this twisting, sometimes rocky trail overlooks the bay on one side and architecture on the other. Walk the whole path, or stop off at The Breakers Mansion, Salve Regina University, or The Forty Steps which leads you closer to the water. There are many entry points to the cliff walk, but it begins from First Beach! Located just down the street in Middletown is Third Beach, which offers a sandy coastline for walking, or enjoying the sun. But it also hosts the Norman Bird Sanctuary. This area of land includes seven miles of walking trails through acres of diverse habitats. There are marked hiking trails for all abilities, as well as guided birdwatching tours offered through the sanctuary. Check out their welcome center to learn about all the Norman Bird Sanctuary has to offer. Want to feel like you’ve escaped into the woods for an afternoon? Visit Lincoln Woods for both paved and wooded trails with lake views. The whole path is 3.1 miles and is accessible for all levels. A picturesque covered bridge is located at one entrance, and the nature around the park provides a relaxing atmosphere. With various activities in the park, there is something for all seasons. Ice skating in the winter, swimming and boating in the summer, and horseback riding year round; find information about what you're looking for on their website. Looking for a short trail to burn off some energy? Mowry Conservation Area in Smithfield at 41 Old Forge Rd, offers two short trails at under a mile that are clearly marked and lead you over a river, and through the woods! Bring a lunch to enjoy in the picnic area, or simply enjoy some nature as you loop around the pine grove. The shorter “Red Trail” forks to the additional length of the “Yellow Trail”. Also located in Smithfield is the Wolf Hill Forest Preserve. With longer trails, and rockier terrain, your walk will feel more like a hike than a leisurely stroll. A rock quarry and a scenic overlook of Providence await you on your adventure. Difficulty may vary as you venture along, and trails are linked so pay attention to the direction you take, and the length, or you may spend the afternoon retracing your steps along the same paths. Goddard Park in East Greenwich is a popular spot for kids and adults alike. Known for its spacious meadows, multiple picnic areas, and various walking trails, an afternoon at Goddard park offers something for everyone. There is even a beach for swimming or sunbathing, with lifeguards on duty during the summer hours. If you’re in the Johnston area and you find yourself wanting to hunt down a new pair of prescription eyewear or sunglasses, make a quick trip to us at OPTX Rhode Island! We are right on Hartford Avenue. Come see our opticians and frame stylists to get hooked up with some new shades for your next outing. If you have questions, call us at (401)521-6789 and check out our website at www.optxrhodeisland.com for more details and services offered.
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