Gaia: Track Miles: 11.0mi  Duration: 4:56  Rating: 10/10

Established in 1932 as the state’s first forest, George Washington Memorial State Park is a sprawling 4,000-acres that boasts a network of well-maintained trails, offering a diverse range of hiking experiences. Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking a challenging trek or a casual walker simply looking to immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility, George Washington Memorial State Park has something to offer everyone.

A Multi-Use Trail System for Hikers and Bikers

The park’s trails cater to a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and even hunting during designated seasons. As a hiker, it’s important to be mindful of bikers, who often share the trails and have the right of way due to their faster pace and maneuvering requirements. During our recent hike, we encountered only one biker and a few dog walkers, allowing us to enjoy the serenity of the woods.

Navigating the Concentric Trail Loops

George Washington Memorial State Park is renowned for its exceptional trail system, meticulously blazed and designed for easy navigation. Visitors can choose from three interconnected trail loops, each offering a unique experience. The shortest trail, marked by a blue blaze, spans 1.6 miles, while the red and orange trails extend to 6 and 8 miles, respectively. These concentric loops allow hikers to tailor their adventure to their fitness level and time constraints.

A 10+ Mile Challenge: Exploring Beyond the Well-Blazed Trails

For those seeking a more strenuous outdoor experience, a 10+ mile hike will be organized the first weekend of every month. While this hike began within the confines of George Washington Memorial State Park, to reach our target 10+ mileage, we ventured beyond the well-blazed trails, and connected with neighboring trail systems.

Unearthing History Amidst the Wilderness

Along our journey, we stumbled upon remnants of the past, stone walls and foundations hinting at the existence of once-inhabited homes. Some of these foundations were filled with rainwater, which reminded a couple of hikers of bio lakes they encountered during a recent trip to Italy. These natural pools purify water without chemicals, relying on the local plants for filtration. According to the locals in Italy, the presence of frogs in the water, served as an indicator of its purity.

A Majestic Beaver Dam: A Testament to Nature’s Engineering Skills

As we traversed the North-South Trail, we were awestruck by the sight of one of the largest beaver dams we had ever seen. Spanning an impressive 50-75 feet and towering approximately 4 feet high, this structure stood as a testament to the ingenuity and industriousness of beavers. The sheer volume of branches used to construct the dam, evident from the photographs, exemplified the beavers’ remarkable ability to manipulate their environment.

An Unexpected Encounter: Private Property Signs and a Blocked Trail

During our hike along the Border Trail in Connecticut, we were met with an unexpected obstacle – a series of private property signs followed by a fence obstructing the trail’s path. This trail, previously familiar to us, had inexplicably become inaccessible. After consulting property parcel maps, we were unable to discern the reason for the blockage. Faced with this challenge, the group decided to navigate through the surrounding woods, ultimately rejoining the trail at a different location.

A Diverse Terrain: Embracing the Challenges and Charms of the Hike

This hike offered a blend of easy and challenging sections, catering to hikers of all skill levels. The trails traversed a variety of terrains, from smooth dirt paths to areas with loose rocks, muddy patches, exposed tree roots, and steep inclines and declines. Along our route, we encountered charming babbling brooks and cascading waterfalls, feeding nearby ponds and adding to the tranquil ambiance of the woods.

George Washington Memorial State Park: A Treasure Trove of Natural Wonders

George Washington Memorial State Park stands as a gem among Rhode Island’s natural attractions, offering a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts alike. With its well-maintained trails, diverse terrain, and historical remnants, the park provides an unforgettable outdoor experience, allowing visitors to connect with the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.