The best waterfall hikes and walks in Rhode Island
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Waterfall hiking trails in Rhode Island traverse a landscape characterized by diverse natural features, including dense woodlands, coastal areas, and unique glacial formations. The state's terrain offers a mix of gentle paths along rivers and streams, as well as more rugged forest trails. Many routes follow water bodies, providing opportunities to encounter cascades and natural falls. This varied geography ensures a range of experiences for hikers seeking waterfall views.
Best waterfall hiking trails in Rhode Island
- The most popular waterfall hiking route is North South Trail: Arcadia to Greene, a 13.6 miles (21.8 km) trail that takes 5 hours 44 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers extensive forest hiking as part of the longer North South Trail.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Ben Utter and River Trail Loop, an easy 2.8 miles (4.5 km) path. This trail leads through the Arcadia Management Area, providing access to a series of shallow waterfalls.
- Local hikers also love the Stoney Brook Loop Trail, a 1.4 miles (2.2 km) trail leading through woodlands and along streams, often completed in about 36 minutes.
- Hiking in Rhode Island is defined by dense woodlands, river valleys, and glacial formations, with options for various ability levels from easy strolls to more challenging, longer routes.
- The routes in Rhode Island are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 150 reviews. More than 2600 hikers have used komoot to explore Rhode Island's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
21.8km
05:44
200m
150m
Hike the difficult 13.6-mile North South Trail: Arcadia to Greene through forests and past Stepstone Falls, gaining 664 feet in 5h 44m.
2.23km
00:36
30m
30m
The Stoney Brook Loop Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a serene woodland in Rhode Island, perfect for a quick nature fix. You'll wander along stream corridors, enjoying the gentle sounds of flowing water and navigating seasonally wet spots with the help of bog bridges. Keep an eye out for the distinctive double row of tall Norway spruce trees and the charming Girl Scout Camp Beach on Carr Pond, providing a lovely focal point for your journey.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available at the main area where you'll also find public restrooms. This 1.4-mile (2.2 km) loop, with a modest 102 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and takes approximately 36 minutes to complete, making it an accessible option for nearly everyone. It's a great choice for a relaxed outing any time of year.
This trail is a key part of the larger King/Benson Preserve trail system, which also includes routes like Julia's Trail and the Pettaquamscutt Trail, offering opportunities to extend your adventure if you wish. Its tranquil setting and easy accessibility make it a popular route for those seeking beginner hiking trails or a peaceful escape into nature without significant challenge.
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748m
00:12
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10m
The Ken Weber Conservation Trail near Greenville, Rhode Island, is a delightful, easy hike that packs a surprising amount of scenery into its short length. You'll wander through a rocky, open forest, encountering immense boulders, ancient stone walls, and the impressive 12-foot Cascade Brook Falls, Rhode Island's tallest waterfall. This 0.5-mile (0.7 km) route involves only 7 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 11 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick, scenic escape.
Planning your visit is straightforward for this well-maintained trail. It's an excellent choice for a spontaneous afternoon outing, especially if you're looking for family-friendly hikes. Spring offers the most active waterfall views, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Parking is generally accessible, making it easy to start your adventure.
What truly sets this trail apart is its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The trail was laid out by Ken Weber, a renowned Rhode Island naturalist, and features the ruins of an old stone house with a distinctive four-fireplace chimney. Some boulders even have plaques with poems, adding a unique, contemplative touch to your journey through this conservation area.
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4.47km
01:13
60m
60m
The Ben Utter and River Trail Loop offers a delightful journey through classic New England woodland, following the picturesque Falls River. You'll wander among towering White Pines and Red Maples, with the path occasionally rocky but generally easy underfoot. The star attraction is Stepstone Falls, a captivating series of cascades over rocky steps, creating beautiful pools that sparkle in the sunlight.
This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) loop, with a gentle 207 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a quick escape, taking about 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete. It's a popular choice for families and those with leashed dogs, offering an accessible way to enjoy nature. Parking is available at the trailhead within the Arcadia Management Area, making it a convenient destination for a scenic hike.
Beyond the natural beauty, the trail also offers glimpses into the area's past, with remnants of old mill foundations and a restored Civilian Conservation Corps Picnic Pavilion. Keep an eye out for diverse plant life, especially wildflowers in the spring, and opportunities for birdwatching. This trail provides a rewarding experience for anyone seeking a tranquil and historically rich outdoor adventure in Rhode Island.
7.20km
01:57
100m
100m
The Barden Reservoir Loop in Rhode Island is a charming and accessible hike, perfect for a leisurely outing. You'll wander along quiet country roads, both dirt and paved, passing through woodlands and alongside historic stone walls. The highlight is undoubtedly the Barden Reservoir itself, offering serene views, and a picturesque man-made waterfall cascading over boulders.
This easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) loop involves a gentle 322 feet (98 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 57 minutes. It's a great option for families and beginners, with parking available at the trailhead. Since it's part of a public water supply, direct reservoir access is restricted, but the perimeter roads provide lovely views.
Beyond the scenic reservoir, the route also passes several historic cemeteries, including one with Civil War Veterans, adding a layer of historical interest to your walk. The trail's road-based nature makes it a very accessible option for a casual stroll, offering a peaceful escape into nature without strenuous effort.
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The Kate Randall Road is a quiet gravel and dirt road that runs north-south from the Central Pike, just west of the Barden Reservoir. This is a great place for a quiet stroll around the lake.
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From this spot on the Central Pike (be aware of cars!) you get great views on both sides of the Barden Reservoir. Just west of the bridge on a small peninsula historic cemetery where Civil War Veterans are buried. Interestingly, there are a few more historic cemeteries near by along Ponagansett Road, which part of a pleasant walking loop on a mix of gravel and dirt, and paved roads around the reservoir.
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Stepstone Falls is a collection of cascades formed by slabs that create "steps" in the riverbed. The falls are located on the Wood River, which runs seasonally drier in the peak of the summer. The most popular path accessing the falls is the Ben Utter Trail, but there are a few different paths that lead to the viewing area.
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Stepstone Falls is a collection of cascades formed by slabs that create "steps" in the riverbed. The falls are located on the Wood River, which runs seasonally drier in the peak of the summer. The most popular path accessing the falls is the Ben Utter Trail, but there are a few different paths that lead to the viewing area.
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Girl Scout Camp beach sits on the reservoir just south of Carr Pond. You can walk out to the water here and take in the views from one of the best vantage points within King/Benson Preserve.
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Arcadia is by far the largest recreation area in Rhode Island. Whether you like hiking, mountain biking, fishing, paddling, or even horseback riding, you can pursue all of these hobbies here. The numerous idyllic ponds offer beautiful sandy beaches and there are also a number of campgrounds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available in Rhode Island?
There are 7 dedicated waterfall hiking trails in Rhode Island featured in this guide, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging routes through the state's diverse landscapes.
Are there easy waterfall hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Rhode Island offers several easy waterfall hikes. For instance, the Ben Utter and River Trail Loop is an easy 2.8-mile path through the Arcadia Management Area, providing access to a series of shallow waterfalls. Another gentle option is the Stoney Brook Loop Trail, a 1.4-mile route through woodlands and along streams.
What kind of terrain can I expect on waterfall trails in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island's waterfall trails typically traverse dense woodlands, follow river valleys, and often feature unique glacial formations. You can expect a mix of gentle paths along water bodies and more rugged forest trails, reflecting the state's varied geography.
Are there any longer or more challenging waterfall hikes?
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the North South Trail: Arcadia to Greene offers a difficult 13.6-mile (21.8 km) hike. This route provides extensive forest hiking as part of the longer North South Trail, with significant elevation changes.
What do other hikers say about the waterfall trails in Rhode Island?
The waterfall trails in Rhode Island are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 150 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the serene aquatic scenery, and the well-maintained paths that lead to beautiful cascades and natural falls.
Are there any circular (loop) waterfall trails?
Yes, several waterfall trails in Rhode Island are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. The Ben Utter and River Trail Loop is a popular example, providing a scenic circuit through the Arcadia Management Area.
Can I find any notable natural features or landmarks near these waterfall trails?
Absolutely. Many trails are located within or near significant natural areas. For example, the Stepstone Falls, a series of shallow waterfalls, is a highlight accessible via the Ben Utter Trail in the Arcadia Management Area. You might also encounter features like those found in Lincoln Woods State Park, known for its glacial boulder fields.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Rhode Island?
The best time to visit waterfalls in Rhode Island is typically during spring when snowmelt and rainfall contribute to higher water flows, making the cascades more impressive. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with fall foliage, though water levels might be lower. Summer provides pleasant hiking weather, while winter can offer a unique, frozen landscape, but requires appropriate gear.
Are there any trails that offer views of lakes or ponds in addition to waterfalls?
Yes, some trails combine waterfall views with serene lake or pond scenery. For instance, the Barden Reservoir Loop, while not explicitly a waterfall trail in this guide, is an easy hike that offers beautiful water-focused views, and many trails in the region follow ponds and streams, such as those near Tarbox Pond or Breakheart Pond.
What other attractions can I explore in Rhode Island after a waterfall hike?
Rhode Island offers a wealth of attractions beyond its waterfalls. You could explore historic sites like Rough Point Mansion or The Towers (Narragansett). For more natural beauty, consider coastal areas like Beavertail State Park or the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island, known for their panoramic ocean views.
Are the waterfall trails in Rhode Island generally dog-friendly?
Many of Rhode Island's state parks and management areas, where waterfall trails are often located, are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out, but generally, you'll find opportunities to enjoy these natural wonders with your canine companion.
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