While there are dozens of hidden beaches found throughout Rhode Island, few compare to this gorgeous lesser known slice of paradise. If you're an avid beach goer, but prefer places with fewer crowds, this small and peaceful place on one of the state's islands might be just the place for you.
Spending time outdoors, especially if there’s a chance of spotting wildlife, is one of my favorite ways to destress. Seeing a deer peeking out from behind a hiding spot; hearing squirrels running up trees, and listening to the birds are instant stress reducers. One of the best places to see wildlife, especially for bird-watchers, is this wildlife refuge in Rhode Island that’s home to 300 bird species.
advertisement
Reconnect with nature at Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge, a 787-acre oasis that promises a quiet retreat, whether you cast a line into the pond from Moonstone Beach; explore on a scenic trail, or relax on a bench as you soak up the scenery. Whatever your plan, make sure you allot some time for bird-watching. The wildlife refuge is home to an estimated 300 species of birds and more than 60 types of mammals and amphibians, so chances are pretty good you’re going to spot a lot of birds and animals.
Consider bringing binoculars for an up-close view of piping plovers, Cooper’s hawks, wood ducks, mallards, and song sparrows. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a bald eagle. Perhaps the best way to see the birds and wildlife, including river otters and wood frogs, is to follow one of the easy trails. Educational placards are placed throughout the wildlife refuge, offering more information about bird species and restoration efforts, and there are several wooden observation decks.
The shortest of the trails, Farm Field Loop Trail, tallies just .06 of a mile and is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Meander along the scenic trail through a meadow and along a tree-lined path that leads to Farm Pond, where lily pads float. If you need a breather, relax on a bench that overlooks a meadow, and keep an eye out for snapping turtles, birds, and dragonflies.
If you have more time, set off on the 2.5-mile Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge Trail, which leads to one of the observation decks. The predominately flat trail, also with benches along the way, wanders past fields, mushrooms and wildflowers, and to the pond. The wildlife refuge can get buggy in the warmer months, but it’s a popular destination year-round.
While the wildlife refuge is kid-friendly, you’ll have to leave your pup at home. Dogs are not permitted. Find more information on Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge on the official website of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
Before you explore Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge, make sure you have everything you need for successful bird-watching, including binoculars and a camera. Keep your adventure going by visiting Shepherd’s Run, a winery and inn in South Kingstown, Rhode Island.
If you know of any other amazing bird-watching spots in Rhode Island, let us know. For more Rhode Island content delivered straight to your email, scroll down to the bottom of the page to sign up for the Rhode Island newsletter.
Sometimes shedding the stress of the day requires little more than a quick break. Other times I want to get outdoors and escape from it all – the noise, the responsibilities, the little annoyances that seem to balloon as the day wears on. We’ve all had those days where we want to shut off the noise but our energy levels are nil. Fortunately, we’ve got plenty of ways to let that stress go, including with a stroll on this short and sweet path to a beautiful pond in Rhode Island.
advertisement
Some days just call for a chill adventure that allows us to spend some time lost in nature, enjoying the fresh air, and appreciating the pretty scenery. Breakheart Pond Loop via Hicks Trail, a short and sweet path that tallies just over 1.5 miles, doesn’t require a whole lot of time, about half an hour on average, but promises an abundance of natural beauty, including white pine trees, laurel, and even a tiny cascade or two. The easy trail meanders through Arcadia State Management Area, so it unsurprisingly gets busy at times. Expect to run into others out hiking, walking their dogs (all dogs are welcome if they’re leashed), or snowshoeing if there’s snow on the ground.
If it's the views you're after, you don’t have to follow the entire trail. Slide into one of the parking spots in the small lot, which has less than a dozen spaces, and take a short stroll to the water’s edge. Flanked by white pine trees that mirror off the water, the 44-acre pond is popular with boaters and kayakers. If you plan to explore by boat, you’re only allowed to do so in a non-motorized or an electric boat.
However, if you are up for the adventure of following the Breakheart Pond Loop via Hicks Trail, go prepared. The area can get buggy, so insect repellant is a must, and water shoes are a good idea, especially if you’re heading out after it rains. Don’t expect too many changes along this predominately flat path that loops around the pond. The elevation gain is just under 60 feet, making it an easy walk even for the kiddos.
Have you been to Breakheart Pond in Rhode Island? What did you think? Was the trail easy? Would you follow it again? Let us know in the comments! If you prefer a challenge and want to explore Arcadia State Management Area some more, set off on the moderately difficult 13.4-mile North South Exeter to Carbuncle Pond Trail. Or check out AllTrails for more of the best trails in Rhode Island.
