North South Trail: Charlestown to Wood River Junction

The route is approximately 19.4 kilometers (12 miles) long. While individual pace varies, it typically takes around 4 to 5 hours to complete this section of the trail.

The terrain is quite varied, offering a diverse hiking experience. You'll encounter a mix of paved roads, dirt roads, and singletrack trails. The initial miles from Charlestown may involve walking through pleasant neighborhoods on asphalt before transitioning to woods roads and state hunting/management areas. Expect rural and scenic views through lakeshores, bogs, hills, farmland, and dense woodlands. Some sections, like those near the Burlingame Management Area, might have steeper ups and downs.

Yes, this section of the North South Trail is generally considered Easy in terms of elevation and technical difficulty, making it suitable for beginners looking for a longer walk. The primary challenge for many hikers is managing footwear and preventing blisters due to the significant amount of road walking involved.

This section offers diverse scenery, from coastal areas near Charlestown to rural countryside. You'll pass through areas like the Burlingame Management Area, and might encounter historical remnants such as cellar holes and stone walls, evoking Rhode Island's past farmlands. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife throughout the journey. You'll also be near coastal features like Quonochontaug Beach and Sam Ferrenti East Beach Town Beach, and cross Poquiant Brook.

The trail can be enjoyed in various seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer weather and potential insects. Winter hiking is possible, but check conditions for snow and ice, especially on less maintained sections.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on this trail. However, they should always be kept on a leash, especially when passing through residential areas, state management lands, or if wildlife is present. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and clean up after your pet.

The trail starts in Charlestown and ends in Wood River Junction. Specific parking information for the Charlestown trailhead can vary, but generally, you'll look for public access points near the start of the North South Trail in Charlestown. As this is a point-to-point hike, consider arranging a shuttle or car drop-off at either end.

No specific permits are required to hike this section of the North South Trail. There are also no entrance fees for accessing the trail itself. However, if you plan to utilize facilities within Burlingame State Park (which the trail passes through), such as camping or specific day-use areas, separate fees may apply.

Yes, this route is part of the larger North South Trail, which traverses the entire length of Rhode Island. Along this specific section, you will be primarily on the North South Trail, but it also passes through sections designated as the North South/Vin Gormley Trail.

Given the trail's length and varied terrain, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate footwear to prevent blisters, especially due to the road walking sections. Sun protection, insect repellent, a map or GPS device, and a first-aid kit are also recommended. Dress in layers suitable for the weather conditions.

While the terrain is generally easy with low elevation gain, the primary challenge for many hikers on this ~19 km section is the significant amount of road walking. This can lead to discomfort or blisters if you're not wearing appropriate footwear or haven't prepared your feet for the mileage on harder surfaces. Planning your footwear carefully is key.