We all love to head down Route 1A in Narraganset, but why not change it up? How about a Rhode Island waterfall road trip that will take you to some of the best waterfalls in Rhode Island? These cascades can be found all over the state in amazing spots ranging from charming small towns to hikes in the forest, and short (but beautiful) walking paths. There are so many reasons to love the natural beauty surrounding us in this great state, and what better way to enjoy it than by checking out these Rhode Island waterfalls near you?
In all, the trip will take you to 10 Rhode Island waterfalls. You can check out the customizable itinerary on Google Maps.
1. Ponaganset Falls, Scituate
For your first stop, you'll check out the mighty Ponaganset Falls that lead into the Scituate Reservoir. This is an amazing start to this Rhode Island waterfall road trip, and it's such a relaxing place to sit and think about how great our little state really is. Note that the flow can vary dramatically throughout the year, but if you visit when it's been raining, this is quite the spectacle! Check out this video of the falls in full force:
2. Harrisville Falls, Burrillville
Keep heading north after visiting your first stop and you'll find this man-made set of falls. They can be found right in the heart of the charming village of Burrillville, which is right on the border with Connecticut and Massachusetts.
3. Round Top Fishing Area, Burrillville
While you're in Burrillville, make sure to take the short drive over to the Round Top Fishing Area, where you'll find yet another Rhode Island waterfall. If you start your trip off early enough you can even squeeze in a few hours of some of the best fishing to be had in the state! This area is also home to one of the most famous ghost stories in Rhode Island.
4. Albion Falls, Lincoln
For our next stop on this Rhode Island waterfall road trip, you'll hit up the Blackstone River in Lincoln. The charming mill town of Albion is home to these wonderful falls that are among the best hidden gems in Rhode Island.
5. Robin Hollow Pond Falls, Cumberland
Continue moving south on into Cumberland and make a stop by Robin Hollow Pond: you won't be sorry. In addition to admiring the gorgeous waterfall, this is another spot that's great for fishing. The trails here are some of the best spring hikes in Rhode Island.
6. The falls at Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark, Pawtucket
Our next stop is the mighty waterfall at the Old Slater Mills National Historic Landmark. The greenery beside this Blackstone River dam is perfect for a quick snack in the middle of your day of waterfall wonder. If you have the time, make sure to take one of the guided history tours at Old Slater Mills to learn about Little Rhody's part in the Industrial Revolution.
This fascinating place is one of the most interesting historical sites in the state:
7. Pawtuxet Village Falls, Warwick
These "Little Falls" in Pawtuxet Village inspired the name of the charming town that surrounds the water. Did you know that this is the oldest village in Rhode Island? It's such an enchanting spot with so much to see!
8. Kenyon Mill Falls, South Kingstown
For your next stop, travel down to South County to visit the gorgeous Kenyon Mill Falls. If you don't take this road trip in autumn, make sure to come back in the fall to see the leaves changing colors here. This place has some of the best fall foliage in Rhode Island.
9. Shannock Horseshoe Falls, Richmond
This unique horseshoe-shaped dam is found in the quaint little village of Shannock in Richmond. This is another place that's a perfect fall trip in Rhode Island. This Rhode Island waterfall can get pretty powerful when it rains. Check out this video taken after heavy flooding:
10. Stepstone Falls, West Greenwich
A hike through the forest of Acadia, the state's largest recreational area, will bring you to Stepstone Falls, the perfect final leg of your journey.
How many of these waterfalls in Rhode Island have you seen? Do you know others you think should be on this Rhode Island waterfalls road trip? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Waterfalls and hiking go hand in hand. Here is a list of our favorite Rhode Island hiking trails, many of which also treat you to beautiful waterfalls. Stop by AllTrails+ before you go to find up-to-date trail info and maps.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/rhode-island/best-hikes-in-rhode-island/
If you are looking for a quaint small town in Rhode Island to stop for a weekend getaway during your waterfall road trip in Rhode Island, check out Watch Hill:
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