The North-South Trail

On some winter days, when my spirit is unwilling to drag me out of bed and go north, I must still get outside and put my feet on a path. Over a few seasons I engaged myself by section hiking in Rhode Island. The state’s North- South Trail will take you from Blue Shutters Beach on the coast in the south by the Atlantic, to the northern border at the Massachusetts line. At 78 miles, it’s perfect for a set of weekend section hikes over a period of time. If you have at least one friend, you can shuttle between car spots and see the wonderful variety of open space and diverse towns outside of the Ocean State’s more populated cities.

The Trek has an excellent article about the trail, but unfortunately some of the information is no longer accurate. Finding trail information can be difficult. Local guides such as the Great Swamp Press’ book about the trail are no longer in publication. All Trails is a good place to find a GPX for your trail app if you use one. You should be prepared for quite a bit of road walking. Many sections of the trail are on private property. The owners have been generous in allowing hikers access to pass through to the public zones, and it’s appreciated. Please take care and respect their land as you make your way along the trail.

The beauty of a section hike is that you can start anywhere. I completed a patchwork of sections before finally finish in the south at the beach. After having spent many hikes in wooded areas, coming down to the sea offered a unique and spectacular view!

If you are a Rhode Islander, even a novice, you should give a section or two of easy hiking on the North- South a chance. The chance to see areas of the state outside of your own backyard is a gift the trail offers at no cost. Entering the state, you’re greeted by a big blue sign announcing “Discover Rhode Island.” Here’s your chance.