Block Island Heritage Trail
A 10-square mile gem of a seaside resort located just 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast has been heralded as "one of the twelve best unspoiled areas in the Western Hemisphere," the island's rolling green hills and dramatic Mohegan Bluffs are reminiscent of Ireland, and its beautifully restored Victorian hotels and charming inns and B&B's preserve the elegance of a bygone era. The bluffs rise abruptly to a height of about 200 feet above the sea and stretch for nearly three miles along the southern shore, offering spectacular scenic vistas.
Along this trail you'll see magnificent views of lighthouses, sweeping views of the Atlantic , unmatched hiking and biking, fresh seafood, and more!
Old Harbor
The Point Judith and Newport ferries land in Old Harbor. The Island's only village offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and hotels. The village's authentic architecture is typical of a historic seaside New England town.
Manisses Animal Farm
A rambling farm featuring an outdoor zoo complete with exotic animals from around the globe. Featuring corralled llamas, Sicilian donkeys, fainting goats, a zebu, Indian runner ducks, emus, our immense Scottish Highland steer called Mr. McDuff, and our newest edition Nyla the camel. 1 Spring Street, Block Island; 401-466-2421, 800-626-4773; www.blockislandresorts.com
Southeast Lighthouse
The Mohegan Bluffs rise abruptly to a height of about 200 feet above the sea and stretch for nearly three miles along the southern shore, offering spectacular scenery. The lighthouse, visited by President Grant, has one of the most powerful electric beacons on the eastern United States coast. The lighthouse was moved from the edge of the Bluffs in 1993. Jul-Aug, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 122 Mohegan Trail, Block Island; 401-466-5009
Mohegan Bluffs
A beautiful and tranquil area with magnificent views and stunning landscapes . The bluffs rise about 200 feet above the sea and stretch for nearly three miles. Spectacular vistas. To help make your descent and climb easier, there is a staircase to walk up and down on. Nature walks. Mohegan Trail, BlockIsland; 401-466-5009
Rodman's Hollow
This 230-acre glacial outwash basin, located in the southwest part of the island, is considered the birthplace of conservation on Block Island . It was preserved through a 30-year partnership between the Block Island Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy, the Town of New Shoreham , and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. Several miles of walking trails. Off of Cooneymus Road , Block Island ; 401-466-2129; www.nature.org
New Harbor
Nestled at the most inland edge of the Great Salt Pond is a concentration of marina and tourism facilities that serve the pleasure boats that take shelter in the large, protected basin.
North Light
The fourth lighthouse to attempt the shifting sands on Block Island 's Sandy Point. The building was opened in 1993 as an interpretive center. National Wildlife Sanctuary trails lead to the lighthouse. No tower access. Corn Neck Rd., Block Island; 401-466-3200
Block Island National Wildlife Refuge
The refuge encompasses the northern tip of Block Island ( Sandy Point ) and includes the historic North Lighthouse. The shoreline of the refuge consists of a cobble beach that extends from the Settler's Rock parking area to Sandy Point, and a sandy/cobble beach that extends several miles along the west side from Sandy Point to Great Salt Pond. The uplands of vegetated dunes provide a rookery for seagulls, and Sachem Pond is a feeding area for a wide variety of waterfowl. An ideal area for walking, bird watching, and enjoying the view in all directions. Sunrise-sunset. 401-364-9124; www.friendsnwr-ri.org
Settler's Rock
At the end of Corn Neck Road , near a cobble beach on Rhode Island Sound, a rock with a plaque marks the landing site of the European settlers of Block Island in 1661. On the shore of Cow Cove, Block Island . 401-466-3200
Block Island Chamber
1 Water Street
Block Island, Rhode Island
Great side trips for outdoor fun:
- Block Island is a hiking and biking paradise
- Hike or jog the Greenway Trails - more than 30 miles of interconnected hiking trails
- Go Kayaking on Great Salt Pond
Side trips for that one-of-a-kind find
- Old Harbor is home to numerous galleries featuring works by local artists
- Monthly arts & crafts guild fairs by local artists
Tasty tips along the trail.
- Local favorites: Homemade melt in your mouth donuts that locals call sinkers. Homemade taffy
- Famous for: fresh out-of-the-water lobster, scallops, tuna and swordfish at local eateries.
Here are some tips on shopping along the trail.
- Old Harbor offers hours of leisurely shopping in a Victorian seaside setting
- Open air Farmers Market - purchase hand-made jewelry, pottery, honey, original paintings
Did you know.
- Although only 11 square miles, the Island has over 400 miles of stone walls
- Block Island has 365 fresh water ponds
Top off the day with an outstanding performance along the trail:
- The Empire Theatre - featuring a Fairy Tale theatre for kids and a Barbershop Quartet - in season
Learn more about Block Island at:
- Block Island Historical Society, Bridgegate Sq., 401-466-2481
