Area trails that are easy to navigate with kids in tow . By Jamie Coelho
When I start to feel guilty about my kids ’ screen time , I realize there ’ s nothing a walk in the woods can ’ t cure . Load up the bug spray and stay on the trails — these local refuges and sanctuaries are worth exploring . And if kids really can ’ t kick the tech , try downloading a geocaching app and find hidden caches along the way on some trails . Just bring a pen so they can sign their name to any scrolls they discover . Even homebodies at heart will gain a new appreciation for the great outdoors . geocaching . com
WEETAMOO WOODS Tiverton This 4.7-mile loop trail is color-coded and well marked to help hikers get from point a to point b without getting lost . Pick a color : We recommend yellow to blue to red and back for a nice three-mile jaunt that includes a stop at an old mill with a stream running through it . Where to Park : Lots at the East Road and Lake Road trailheads . Detour : Tiverton Four Corners , including Gray ’ s Ice Cream and Groundswell Cafe and Bakery , for post-hike treats .
SACHUEST POINT NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Middletown This 2.4-mile flat , sandy trail with ocean views is easily navigable with a jogging stroller . Kids can observe beach roses and wildflowers growing along the ocean with plenty of butterflies fluttering through the air and maybe a few deer bounding through the fields . Pick a lookout spot and use the binoculars to search rocky outcroppings for birds and other wildlife . Where to Park : 769 Sachuest Point Rd ., Middletown . Lot parking . Detour : Sweet Berry Farm isn ’ t far . Tack on a visit for berry picking or stop by the farm stand for ice cream or a sweet snack . will reminisce about childhood while kids will see remnants from the past like the Circle Swing ride tower , supports from the Skyliner gondola ride and the arch by the entrance . Where to Park : 1 Rocky Point Ave ., Warwick . Detour : Make it a Rocky Point-dedicated day and stop by Rocky Point Clam Shack for clam cakes and chowder .
WOLF HILL FOREST PRESERVE Smithfield There are all kinds of cool things to see along this trail that includes a former Boy Scouts camp and a WWII memorial that pays tribute to three airmen who perished on the site when their plane crashed there in 1943 . Look for color-coded markings on trees to find your way , and focus on yellow to explore the World War II Memorial Trail . Where to Park : 5 Waterview Dr ., Smithfield . Park near the trailhead . Detour : You ’ re only fifteen minutes away from one of the best bakeries in Rhode Island , Wright ’ s Dairy Farm .
ROCKY POINT STATE PARK Warwick While more like a flat , paved walk than a hike , this trail is good for those with the littlest legs . The 1.6-mile loop leads to markers noting popular spots in the former Rocky Point amusement park . Adults
CONQUERING
JERIMOTH HILL
At 812 feet in height , Jerimoth Hill is not exactly the Everest of local treks . Nevertheless , Rhode Islanders and visitors alike flock to this short path in Foster , where they take pride in standing atop the state ’ s highest point . For many years , this woodsy outcropping near the Connecticut border was notoriously inaccessible due to a neighboring landowner who didn ’ t appreciate visitors traipsing the privately owned trail to the summit . In 2008 , the state purchased the access trail , and in 2014 , the high point itself was acquired from Brown University , whose astronomy staff previously used its dark skies for stargazing . Today , visitors can park at the trailhead on Old Hartford Pike and follow a brief , 0.3-mile trail to the official high point . | | CONTINUED ON PAGE 102
The roots and stones create unexpected steps at Wolf Hill Forest Preserve .
RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l JUNE 2022 43