Gaia: Track Miles: 5.7mi  Duration: 2:45

Brief History

Snake Den State Park sprawls across 744 acres, made up of both farmland and woodland. Before becoming Snake Den State Park in 1969, this land witnessed generations of stewardship. The Dame family purchased land from the Steere family in 1890 where they farmed for centuries, making their money in dairy cows and apple orchards. The Dame family legacy lives on with an apple orchard still operational today across the street from Snake Den State Park. The Waterman and Steere families also played a role in shaping the landscape. The Waterman farm’s stone quarry provided the very material that built Providence, including the First Congregational Church, now known as the First Unitarian Church. Traces of the quarry remain, silent witnesses to a bygone era.

Adding to the intrigue, in the early 1800s, some believe the land belonged to Moses Brown, a prominent Quaker and businessman. His family owned a shipping business but Moses quickly separated from the family business when he learned the business was taking part in slave trade. Moses opposed the practice and later built his own fortune in textiles by financing Slater Mills. Whispers of a local stop on the Underground Railroad persist, and who knows, perhaps the Moses Brown’s influence played a part in offering freedom to those fleeing bondage. Snake Den State Park, then, is not just a patch of woods and fields. It’s history runs deeper including generations of farmers, builders, and even freedom fighters.

The Hike

Remember last winter’s brutal cold snaps? The group swore off hiking when the temperature dipped below 20 degrees and instead would head right to breakfasts. But on this day, barely a whisper of wind,18 degrees felt like a spring stroll compared to those single-digit nightmares. The group decided to hike on.

Snake Den isn’t new to us, but this time, we veered off our usual path, eager to explore uncharted territory. The trails unfurled with fresh challenges, weaving through damp woods and testing our footing on slick rocks. The network of trails offers something for everyone. Easily passable pathways, perfect for leisurely strolls for beginners to heart-stoppers like the ridgeline near the center of the state park. Standing along the ridgeline, we were met with a panoramic view of a valley with a brook we could hear even though we were approximately 60-75 above. Along this ridge, we also stumbled upon a large fire pit, boulders arranged like inviting seats around the charred remnants of a previously lit campfire. Considering the park’s strict curfew, I have a sneaking suspicion this wasn’t a sanctioned campfire.

Baffling Mystery

But the real head-scratcher was the rusty Jeep Cherokee, chilling in the middle of nowhere, upside down no less. Wheels, axles, doors – all gone! Did someone drive it there, flip it, and then walk away with their loot like a squirrel with a nut hoard? Talk about a mystery worthy of Scooby and the gang.

Snake Den wasn’t just about steps and sweat. It was about hidden secrets, like whispers in the wind and rusty riddles waiting to be solved. It’s a reminder that even in familiar places, adventure lurks just off the beaten path, waiting for those brave enough to follow.