Narragansett offers more than just beaches and ocean views. Its trail systems and preserved lands provide walking and hiking options that reflect the coastal terrain, marsh habitats, and wooded uplands of southern Rhode Island. Hikes range in distance and elevation but are mostly accessible, with many routes offering clear trailheads and maintained paths. If you’re interested in hiking in Narragansett RI, these local spots offer reliable options throughout the year.
Each section below highlights a different place to hike, with details specific to that trail or area.
Canonchet Farm Trail
Canonchet Farm is just off Boston Neck Road and begins behind the Narragansett Community Center. The trail loops through wooded areas and wetlands, offering a well-marked path with moderate changes in elevation. It covers about 1.5 miles and passes by the site of the historic Sprague Mansion, as well as stone walls and old farm structures.
The trail also leads to Narrow River, with open views and a small marsh overlook. The terrain includes boardwalks over wet areas, and the forested sections contain native trees and seasonal wildflowers. It’s a compact trail that connects natural features with historical points of interest, making it one of the most straightforward options for hiking in Narragansett RI.
Black Point Trail
The
Black Point Trail begins at the end of Ocean Road, near Scarborough State Beach. It follows the rocky coastline, offering views of the Atlantic and direct access to tidepools and stone outcrops. It runs parallel to the ocean and then curves inland to reach the remains of an old stone fishing lodge, which adds a visual landmark about halfway along the route.
The coastal terrain has sections of hard-packed dirt, flat rock, and low vegetation. Hikers can continue to the edge of the Fishermen’s Memorial State Park area or loop back to the Ocean Road parking area. This trail is popular for its open views and sound of nearby waves, offering a distinct contrast to the forested trails in other parts of Narragansett.
John H. Chafee National Wildlife Refuge (Rome Point)
Located off Boston Neck Road just north of the town boundary, the
John H. Chafee Wildlife Refuge is known for its network of trails that lead through forest and salt marsh to the shore of Narragansett Bay. The main trail is about one mile to the point, with side loops that allow visitors to explore different sections of the preserve.
The shoreline area at Rome Point provides open views of the bay and, during certain seasons, the chance to spot seals in the water. The inland trails are shaded and wide enough for small groups to walk side by side. This preserve is managed with a focus on habitat preservation, so structures are minimal, but the trail network is clearly defined and well-traveled.
William C. O’Neill Bike Path
The
William C. O’Neill Bike Path, also known locally as the South County Bike Path, stretches for nearly eight miles between Kingston Station and the town center of Narragansett. Although designed primarily for cyclists, the paved path is also used extensively by walkers, joggers, and those seeking longer, uninterrupted routes through town. In Narragansett, the path passes behind neighborhoods, through shaded sections of forest, and near wetland areas.
Access points in Narragansett include those near Mumford Road and the endpoint just north of the Pier area. The trail is mostly flat, offering an easy walking experience with consistent surface conditions and multiple benches along the way. Sections of the path include views of old stone walls and bridges, providing a reminder of the region’s rail corridor history. This path is one of the longest and most consistent places for hiking in Narragansett RI, especially for those looking to combine distance, access, and well-maintained infrastructure.
Fishermen’s Memorial State Park Trails
Fishermen’s Memorial State Park includes a network of internal roads and short trail segments that connect to other paths in the Point Judith area. While not a dedicated hiking park, the area includes walking paths through fields and small wooded sections. Many visitors combine this area with a walk toward the nearby Camp Cronin area or continue toward the end of the Point Judith Lighthouse Road.
The park's open areas include picnic spots and lawn sections, but less-developed side paths near the campground's edges allow for informal hiking. This is a good location for those seeking a walk with open visibility and a mix of paved and unpaved terrain. Access is available from the campground entrance or nearby streets with public parking.
Scarborough Beach Perimeter Path
Although best known for its beach,
Scarborough State Beach includes a perimeter walking path that begins near the north pavilion and continues behind the dunes. The route passes along the edge of Black Point and connects loosely with adjacent trails. It includes paved and dirt sections and is maintained primarily for pedestrian access.
The elevation remains flat, and the walk is short, but it’s frequently used by locals looking for a quiet shoreline loop early in the day. The path offers intermittent ocean views and easy transitions between sand and trail. It’s a good option for combining a beach visit with a walk in an adjacent natural setting.
Pettaquamscutt Cove Trail (near Narrow River)
Located just northwest of Narragansett’s boundary with South Kingstown,
Pettaquamscutt Cove is part of the broader Narrow River watershed. A trail near Middlebridge Road leads to sections of protected shoreline and cove-side paths. The area includes open water views and dirt trails that wind through tall grass and low brush.
The land is overseen by environmental groups focused on water quality and wildlife management, and the trails are maintained to minimize impact. While technically just outside of town limits, the area is heavily used by residents of Narragansett. Its close connection to Narrow River and preserved wetlands makes it a destination for those seeking low-traffic walking routes.
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