Lincoln Woods State Park is just a short drive from Providence, and this place has to be one the most scenic areas this time of year. The trails offer a thrilling mix of rocky, wooded adventures and a perfectly paved loop around Olney Pond. While you need to hike some paved roads to get to the wooded areas, we challenged ourselves with staying in as much of the wooded areas that weave through incredible granite boulders, descent ascents and descents, and also stunning water views. Trust me, whether you crave a rugged hike or a peaceful jog, Lincoln Woods is the Rhode Island gem you need to explore next!

Here’s a scenic view of Olney Pond as we stepped out of the car and made our way to the trail. The sandy area is a happening place for families to come in the summer for a fresh water pond “beach” experience.

Here are some additional pictures of Olney Pond. As you can see the fall colors are coming in as the shades of red, orange, and yellow start to paint a scenic backdrop.

There are many granite boulder outcrops along the trail and many of them creatively named, such as Ship Rock, Bear Hug Boulder, and Buddy Boulder. ‘Case of Salami’ noted one of them looked like a sleeping dinosaur – can you guess which one?

The group will hike the same trails throughout the year because they transform so dramatically with each season. We only have a few more weeks until the vibrant fall foliage peaks; then, the forests will shift again, changing from full green, to a burst of color, and finally to beautiful, barren trees waiting for winter.