8 Of The Most Epic Adventures In Rhode Island

Rhode Island is a hub of all things adventures, and the reasons are not far-fetched. With dense forests, wetlands, and nature preserves within, as well as the Atlantic Ocean and Rhode Island Sound on its south borders, the state has the stage set for all kinds of outdoor pursuits. From hiking along cliffs to parasailing, kayaking, and zip-lining over a zoo, the Ocean State has so much satisfaction to offer thrillseekers. Seeking an epic vacation, head to Rhode Island and experience these adrenaline-pumping adventures.

Parasailing in Narragansett Bay

Rhode Island’s reputation as the Ocean State makes it a haven for water sports. While sea kayaking, boating, canoeing, and surfing are always top on the list of adventures, they offer little compared to the thrills of parasailing on the waters, especially at Narragansett Bay, the state's most famed water sports destination. Join one of the parasailing outfitters and companies to float above the waters on a parachute canopy while getting towed by a motorboat. Enjoy views of the ocean’s breathtaking scenery as it blends with the sky from hundreds of feet above under the safe supervision of the team. This once-in-a-lifetime experience takes between 8 and 11 minutes, depending on the adventurer’s choice, and will be almost impossible to forget.

Explore Beavertail State Park, Jamestown

Experience the seaside grace and allure of Rhode Island at the 153-acre Beavertail State Park, where hiking and sightseeing adventures are exciting. The park offers some of the finest ocean views on New England's south coast along Narragansett Bay. Several trails on a rocky shoreline offer these enchanting ocean views alongside tide pools that form along the shore. These trails also wind up cliffs and descend to beaches and rocky coves. One of the park’s notable trails to hike is the Red Dot Trail, which leads to the site of a former Naval Radio Station. Beavertail Lighthouse is another highlight of the park as it is one of the oldest in the country, standing proudly at Beavertail Point, overlooking the waters and other lighthouses like Point Judith and Castle Hill. Meanwhile, the park offers other activities like saltwater fishing and picnicking.

Get Lost in Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy, Providence

The 88-acre Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy is the perfect stop for those seeking active participation in the great outdoors without leaving the bustling city of Providence. This natural oasis in an urban sprawl offers adventurous hikes up the hill via miles of trails, most of which are labeled “difficult.” The climb uphill promises to test the bravery and adventurous wits of hikers as they slug it out with the treacherous and rough terrain to the highest point in Providence. At the top of the hill, nearly 300 feet above sea level, views of the cityscape and nearly a quarter of the state are jaw-dropping. Additionally, the trails wind through natural draws like springs, brooks, rock outcroppings, meadows, wildflowers, and some geological formations.

Fort Wetherill State Park, Jamestown

Fort Wetherill State Park is a melting pot of adventures, courtesy of its dramatic landscapes, featuring 100-foot-tall granite cliffs forming imposing walls over the charming waters below. The park boasts sweeping views of the alluring Newport Harbor and East End of Narragansett Bay and is famed as a popular spot for scuba diving. For those adventurous enough to dive into the waters, there are many scuba diving clubs around the boat ramp with scuba diving gear and short lessons. Otherwise, hiking or biking up to the granite cliffs with caution or boating and fishing in the water can also inspire a sense of adventure. While hiking and exploring the area, visit the Fort Wetherill Ruins nestled under the cliffs and explore them with a flashlight.

Block Island Cycling Tour

Block Island is remarkably scenic and lavish with natural endowments, ranging from its 17-mile stretch of gorgeous beaches to the Mohegan soaring bluffs and historic draws. One of the best ways to savor the island’s natural beauty is by cycling around it. Thankfully, the 7.5-mile loop around the island incorporates nine main stops that highlight the island’s magical sights and an additional 8.5-mile, totaling 16 miles. Some of the highlights of the loop include the magnificent Mohegan Bluffs - massive clay cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, where bikers can stop to admire the cliffs and ocean or climb 100 steps down to sunbathe and swim on the beach. Other amazing stops include Painted Rock, South East Lighthouse, Rodman's Hollow, Great Salt Pond, and Fred Benson Town Beach.

A Scenic Drive on Route 102

A scenic drive on Rhode Island's Route 102 leaves travelers gasping for breath as mind-blowing views adorn the magical scenery along the route. The drive is 44 miles long and courses through Rhode Island's most beautiful landscapes. Five Valleys line up the route alongside streams, pine and maple forests, beaches, hills, and historic attractions. This ride starts from North Smithfield and winds through historic Burrillville, Glocester, Scituate, and Foster before ending at Wickford. Natural attractions along the road include Sliver Spring Cove, Perch Cove, Mill Pond, Judith Pond, Scituate Reservoir, and Narragansett and Misquamicut beaches, both worth a stop. Historic Sites include Willow Dell, Helme-Torrey Cemetery, and Rocky Meadows Farm.

Zip Line on Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence

The Eagle Zipline at Roger Williams Park Zoo is the longest in Rhode Island and offers a thrilling and unforgettable adventure over a lush forest. At 115 feet above ground and 760 feet long, the zipline soars over the zoo’s scenery, making riders feel like they are on top of the world. Even better, the zipline is relaxing as it allows riders to sit rather than cling to the wires with harnesses while standing. Visitors can even tag along with a kid for a family-fun adventure as the views of Narragansett Bay, the zoo's forests, and the beautiful capital Providence serve as visual treats. However, participants have to be at least 42 inches tall, and pregnant women are not allowed to do so due to the lap belt gear.

New Port Cliff Walk, New Port

The 3.5-mile New Port Cliff Walk is one of Rhode Island's most scenic, fascinating, and adventurous pursuits. The 2.5-hour walk seamlessly blends the gripping views of New Port's shoreline with the architectural splendor of 19th-century mansions. As walkers embark on the trail, each step unveils spellbinding views of the Atlantic Ocean while waves slam the rocky shores in rage. From the Northern end and starting point at First Beach, the walk is easy with smooth paved paths. However, as one gets to the southern half and last section, there is a sense of daring the impossible with uneven rocks, gravel, and slippery sands on the path toward Reject's Beach. The walk continues to the Breakers, the town's most prominent attraction, a 70-room gilded age mansion owned by the Vanderbilt Family. As with similar rocky hikes on Rhode Island, good shoes and a brave heart are required for a fulfilling experience.

Although the smallest state in the US, Rhode Island is big on adventures year-round. While the beaches and azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean are ever ready for thrilling water sports, the forests, hills, and ponds await hikers who want to test their endurance on rigorous terrains. It is also interesting to know that the state was the first to declare its independence from England - a daring and adventurous move that further made the state a haven for those who wanted to live a life full of adventures.