Fall is a fabulous time to get outside for a walk. The crisp air and changing leaves provide the perfect setting to enjoy the outdoors to the fullest. While a strenuous trek through the woods may not be everyone’s cup of tea, Rhode Island’s rail trails are accessible to everyone. Flat paved paths that run either on abandoned rail lines and canal paths or alongside active train tracks are much easier to navigate than traditional hiking trails. The Blackstone River Greenway over 11 scenic miles to enjoy.
The Blackstone River Greenway is the state’s second longest biking and walking path. It spans 11.6 miles from Cumberland to Woonsocket.
Flickr/Rails-To-Trails Conservancy/Milo Bateman
The path meanders along the Blackstone River as much as possible including along the historic towpaths of the Blackstone Canal. Enjoy views from the many bridges that cross the waterway as the trail follows its course.
Flickr/Doug McGrady
Soak in the scenery during autumn when the leaves begin to change, the path is bordered by a colorful canopy of reds and golds.
Wikipedia/Srs5694
Historic mills, tumbling waterfalls, and the river itself offer photo opportunities galore. There are no shortage of beautiful sights along the trail.
TrailLink/pedego2015
Spot a wonderful array of local wildlife. Geese and herons make frequent appearances in the water and even occasionally on the trail.
TripAdvisor/Alan R
Muskrats, turtles, deer, and other animals have also been spotted by visitors to the Blackstone River Greenway.
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Cycle, walk, skate, or jog, the smooth paved surface is a joy to traverse. You don’t have to conquer the entire trail in one try, take it one section at a time at your leisure.
TripAdvisor/Skippermark Find a full map and directions to several parking areas by visiting the Rhode Island Department of Transportation website here.
Have you ever walked or biked the Blackstone River Greenway? Share your experiences and photos in the comments section below or in our Rhode Island Nature Lovers Group on Facebook. If you love going for a hike, you’ll also want to explore this island sanctuary with ten different trails to choose from.
Flickr/Rails-To-Trails Conservancy/Milo Bateman
Flickr/Doug McGrady
Wikipedia/Srs5694
TrailLink/pedego2015
TripAdvisor/Alan R
TrailLink/estanner5914
TripAdvisor/Skippermark
Find a full map and directions to several parking areas by visiting the Rhode Island Department of Transportation website here.
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