• Outdoors

Scenic & Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails around Providence

Going outdoors with the family to marvel at nature and stretch your legs sounds like a great idea! Hiking is a wonderful activity to spend time outdoors with the kids, allowing them to enjoy nature, breathe fresh air, witness amazing views, and spend time together as a family.

Rhode Island is brimming with picturesque hikes, many of which are suitable for the little ones! Get ready to explore some of the most awe-inspiring areas near Providence with comfortable shoes, and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones! 

1

2082 Victory Hwy, Coventry, RI 02816,

Audubon Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge

This is a paradise for nature-loving families! You will find four miles of trails in several color-coded loops, which give walkers plenty of options for how long to hike and what to see. There are flat and wide trails that are easy for everyone, starting at a pine forest and continuing to the 11-acre Carr Pond where you’ll get to see plenty of beaver activity! This trail is perfect to spot the wildlife that calls the preserve home.

2

Little Compton, RI

Simmons Mill Management Area

There are many opportunities to see and hear birds and wildlife while hiking this easy trail! The 433-acre preserve features a wide and flat path that circles six ponds! Kids will be entertained waiting for wildlife to show up! You will find tons of hand-lettered signs along the trails that describe the trees, wildlife, rocks, and rich history. This is a super fun and easy trail for the whole family, with plenty of benches along the way to admire the natural space and its features!

6

Legion Memorial Dr, Providence, RI 02909

Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy

You will want to keep going until the end of the hill to be rewarded with a nice resting spot and a breathtaking view of downtown Providence! You will find several trails that loop up and around the hilltop. Get ready to walk through a grassy meadow with a view of the skyline, wetlands, brooks, and lots of nature!

7

Seven Mile Rd, Hope, RI 02831

Lawton Farm Hike

Get ready to witness 54.4 acres of rolling hills, pastures, and fields, edged with trees, hedgerows, and stone walls! There are several loop trails to choose from for a 30-, 60- or 90-minute walk, including a perimeter trail that runs along lines of red maples, black walnut, beech trees, and lots of interesting wildlife.

9

Middletown, RI

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge

What’s better than enjoying some active fun with ocean views? This 2.4-mile flat and sandy trail is perfect to navigate with kids and even strollers! There is plenty of wildlife all around, including wildflowers, butterflies, and a few deer!

12

Portsmouth, RI

Melville Park Blue Trail

This 0.8-mile trail is generally considered an easy route, and it takes an average of 17 min to complete. This trail is great for birding, camping, and fishing, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. The Blue Trail is perfect for children! They will love the little footbridges and the little waterfall.

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