This Rhode Island Nature Sanctuary Makes For The Perfect Outdoor Day Trip
By Beth Price-Williams|Published June 22, 2024
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
While we may dream of filling every free moment traveling, reality usually doesn’t cooperate with us. That’s why I love day trips so much. I can pack a lot of fun into a short timeframe and satisfy my wanderlust, usually without putting a huge dent in my budget. One of the best day trips in New England just might be this nature sanctuary in Little Compton, Rhode Island, especially for those of us who want to escape life’s noise for a little bit.
You might already be familiar with John C. Whitehead Preserve without even realizing it; it's home to the popular Dundery Brook Trail, a breathtaking 1.8-mile path that's suitable for little ones and is wheelchair-accessible.
But the trail is just an introduction to this small but mighty nature sanctuary that covers 188 acres and features a variety of landscapes, including a fairy-tale tunnel of trees, meadows, forests, and swamps.
Dogs aren't permitted in the nature reserve to protect the wetlands. If you love animals, though, you'll have plenty of chances to see the wildlife, from ducks floating on a pond to...
If you're up for a hike, the nature sanctuary has three trails, the longest of which, Hope's Path, clocks in at 2.7 miles. Wander through the forest and past ponds and wildflowers.
The first half mile of the popular Dundery Trail is boardwalk, making it easily-accessible to those with strollers and wheelchairs. After the boardwalk ends, the trail becomes a mix of dirt and grass.
Learn more about the John C. Whitehead Preserve on the official website of The Nature Conservancy.
Have you been to this nature sanctuary in Little Compton, Rhode Island? Any tips for those who plan to visit? Let us know in the comments! Wishing you could travel to the French countryside? You can! Well, kind of. This vacation dupe in Little Compton, Rhode Island, will make you swear you’ve traveled to France.