Rhode Island is known as the Ocean State, and for good reason -- our beaches are truly second to none. But Rhody also has plenty of freshwater spots worth exploring, as well as some gorgeous hiking trails. The Walkabout Trail Loop is an underrated gem, and it leads right to a beautiful hidden lake.
The Walkabout Trail Loop is located in the George Washington Memorial Camping Area, near Glocester and Chepachet.
The main trail is just over six miles in length, and it's good for hikers of all skill levels.
This path has a pretty interesting history.
In the summer of 1965, a group of Australian sailors were in Rhode Island while they waited for their ship to be commissioned. they spent that time in the woods of the George Washington Management Area cutting this trail, hence its unique name. The Walkabout is a known Australian Aborigine tradition.
The hike itself is pretty straightforward.
You'll actually have a choice between a two mile loop, a six mile loop, and an extra-long eight mile loop. This six-mile hike is the most popular choice.
Any path you choose will take you alongside the beautiful Bowdish Reservoir.
The Bowdish Reservoir is a 226-acre reservoir with a rocky shoreline and an interesting ecosystem.
This trail is beautiful in any season, and it stays open all year.
And while it does get crowded in the summertime, it's perfectly peaceful on a late fall day.
Make sure to spend some time at the Bowdish Reservoir beach.
Even if it's too cold to do anything but take in the views, you'll be glad you did.
To reach this beautiful trail, just point your GPS to the George Washington Campground in Chepachet.
You'll pay $2 to park, and the trailhead is visible from the parking lot.
Have you ever hiked this beautiful loop? Would you choose the two, six, or eight mile option?
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