Posted By auntie on May 23, 2015

4.5 miles; middletown, ri

this is another property that’s been on my to-do list for a long time. i know i came here as a child when my family lived on aquidneck island, but i quite literally have no actual memory of the place. which is too bad, as it’s probably the prettiest place i’ve ever hiked—just beautiful. and challenging in places, too, with some pretty intense little rock climbs. i absolutely loved this hike.

hanging rock trail

this is part of the hanging rock trail. there are 10 named trails on this 325 acre audubon society property, some of which are marked with a “black diamond” (designates a difficult trail) on their map. my hiking companion and i hit every one of the “black diamond” trails, and there were some places that we, as, ahem,  ladies of a certain age found rather challenging. the photo above was one… the trail goes right over this rock formation. but we persevered.

one of many fantastic views

this is just one of the many fantastic overlooks on the sanctuary. that’s either second or third beach (i forget which) in middletown in the distance. this shot was taken from the end of the red fox trail.

wild columbine

true to its nature as a bird sanctuary, we saw and/or heard many different species of birds, and lots and lots of wildflowers. i really can’t say enough about this place. it’s an absolute must-see for any rhode island hiker.

i have added this hike to the hikefinder. trailhead, trail map, courtesy of the rhode island audubon society. note that trails are only open from 9—5 and there is a $6 fee for non-audubon members to enter this property.

Categories: Rhode Island, Walks and Hikes
Tags: 2–5 miles, Middletown RI, RI