Hike (or Bike) South County

William C. O’Neill Bike Path
More commonly known as the South County Bike Path, the William C. O’Neill Bike Path currently runs six miles (with plans for two additional miles) from the Kingston train station, along the old railroad through Peace Dale and Wakefield, ending in Narragansett. Bikers share the path with joggers, skateboarders and dog walkers, and the path is appropriate for all ages.

Big River Management Area
For hikers and bikers looking for a challenge, head down to the Big River Management Area, an expanse of land covering over 8,000 acres located mainly in West Greenwich. Only some of Big River’s trails have been mapped and named, which makes Big River difficult to navigate, but there are a lot more trails waiting out there to be discovered.

Beach Pond State Park
Running through the Beach Pond State Park is the Tippecansett Trail, a 10.4-mile trail that runs from Camp Yawgoog Road through Beach Pond. For a more leisurely hike, hit the Pachaug Trail, a 6.4-mile loop running around Beach Pond, featuring scenic waterfront views and a relaxing woods stroll. Both trails are great for individuals of all ages.

Arcadia Management Area
In addition to having 14,000 acres, Arcadia Management Area is home to the Ben Utter Trail, a 3.4-mile hike that ends at the Stepstone Falls, a small waterfall. For those craving a longer hike, hop onto the Breakheart Loop, a 6.3-mile trail that loops around the Breakheart Pond. As the state’s largest recreational area, Arcadia Management Area features miles and miles of trails.

Burlingame State Campground
Situated next to Watchaug Pond in Charlestown, the Burlingame State Campground encompasses 3,100 acres featuring 755 campsites, 11 cabins and the Vin Gormley Trail, an 8.5-mile loop running around the pond. In addition, the Audubon Society’s nearby Kimball Wildlife Sanctuary, a 29-acre property, has trails connecting to the campground.

John H. Chafee Nature Preserve
Step back into time with a relaxing hike through the John H. Chafee Nature Preserve. Running along the West Passage shoreline in North Kingstown, this 230- acre state-owned conservation area features undeveloped stretches of shoreline, a seasonal seal population and a 2.5-mile hike that ends at a beach looking toward the Jamestown bridge.