Enjoy the East Bay Bike Path

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The East Bay Bike Path is a paved, continuous path that runs 14.5 miles along the old railroad line from Bristol to India Point Park in Providence. The path, the most popular in Rhode Island, is marking its 25th anniversary this year.

Along the way you’ll encounter wildlife, sprawling scenery and waterfronts, state parks, beautiful homes and a variety of local businesses. Markers at each half-mile help users track their progress along the trail.

Sights Along the Way

The path runs through several parks, each worthy of a detour. Colt State Park, one of the state’s most beloved, has over 400 acres of pristine lawns and unparalleled views of Narragansett Bay. There are plenty of tables and fire pits for a picnic lunch, open space for kite flying and access to Bristol Town Beach. Haines Memorial State Park in Barrington also has picnic tables and pits, ball fields and a boat ramp. The Crescent Park Carousel, made in 1895 by renowned carousel maker Charles I. D. Looff, is just a half-mile off the path in Riverside. A quarter-mile boardwalk directly off of the path leads to the Audubon Society of Rhode Island’s Environment Education Center in Bristol.

Places to Drop Your Kickstand
The Fourth of July isn’t the only thing Bristol takes seriously. The coastal town also knows how to enjoy an afternoon. Bike straight from the path through Independence Park and along the wooden pathway to Thames Street Landing for shopping, dining and ice cream.

Before crossing Main Street and continuing on the path into Warren, cut down Campbell Street and check out Water Street. The waterfront stretch is home to antique shops, boutiques, outdoor dining and playgrounds for the little ones.

After the tunnel, stop in Barrington for a bite at a café, or maybe catch story hour at the local book store. You can also go on a historical adventure by stopping to peruse commemorative plaques provided by the Barrington Preservation Society along the path.

Once you’ve conquered the giant hill in Riverside, take a break at the park-and-ride to pose for a photo. The Providence cityscape along the water provides an impressive backdrop.

India Point Park in Providence is one of the largest green spaces in the city and marks the end of the path. Enjoy a picnic and view of the harbor, or take the pedestrian bridge to the Fox Point neighborhood where you can experience the funky sights, sounds and shops of Wickenden Street.

Take Your Own Path
There are so many options on the East Bay Bike Path. First, your mode of transportation. You can ride solo or with a family of bikers; you can jog or you can rollerblade. Next, you pick your route. Whether it’s a leisurely romp by the water or a day biking the entire path, the beauty of the trail is that you create your own itinerary. From to start to finish, you’re bound to enjoy your time in the fresh air and natural beauty of the East Bay.

East Bay Bike Path, Colt State Park, Haines Memorial State Park, Warren, Barrington, Riverside, The Bay

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