East Bay Bike Path: A Scenic Rhode Island Gem!
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Biking is my favorite way to explore a new area. Since moving to the Providence metro, Mike and I have been checking out all the great bike paths in the area. I’ve never lived anywhere with so many wonderful options. Seriously, you could find a different path to enjoy every weekend. You get to see many sights a lot faster than you would walking, plus it is a fantastic workout.
The East Bay Bike Path is a scenic 14.5 mile path which travels through 4 different cities in Rhode Island including: Bristol, Warren, Barrington, and East Providence. This path is the best rail trail in the state; it follows the old abandoned Providence and Bristol Railroad. It is one of the Hall of Fame recipients along with the Minuteman Bikeway in Boston and CCRT (Cape Cod Rail Trail) which I also love.
I really love the scenery on this path. I’ve biked many trails in this state as well as Massachusetts and this one is by far the most visually appealing. The entire path is loaded with scenic views of the Narragansett Bay, the Providence River, forests, marshes, and parks. I am so motivated to complete the entire 14 mile route as it’s just too scenic to quit.
This path connects 8 different Rhode Island Parks, running right through Haines Memorial State Park. I found this path to be much more scenic than the Cape Cod Rail Trail. The Cape Cod path is better for longer rides, while this one is better for a shorter, but more scenic workout. Both paths are amazing for fitness buffs, whether you are a jogger or cyclist.
The weather is beautiful about 6 months out of the year for a ride. Spring and summer is definitely the best time weather-wise to enjoy a ride. As a bonus, this path never gets too crowded, so you can enjoy some peace and quiet.
Highlights along the route
Pomham Rocks Lighthouse
I love that you can see a lighthouse along the route. This is something unique to New England and a really cool experience. Pomham Rocks was built in 1871. It is located near East Providence’s Riverside neighborhood. Self guided tours are available. Read more about the history of this historic site.
There is a great view of the Providence skyline. It’s not the most scenic city view in the US of course, but a pretty bonus along the way. I love the views during the summer season with the greenery in the background.
If you have the extra time, you may want to stop at Haines Memorial State Park. It’s conveniently located right on route. This is a beautiful park to plan a picnic. There is greenery everywhere you look and nice views of the cove.
One of the flattest & fastest rides!
The path is almost entirely flat, except for 2 large hills near East Providence. We rode the entire 28 miles round trip in about 2 hours and 45 minutes, stopping along the way for snacks, water, and pictures. Without stopping, we could have finished around 2 hours I’m guessing. I would say that this path is easy enough even for beginners, because of the flat terrain. Rail trails really are perfect for leisurely weekend bike paths and runs; most in this region are flat, long, and feature few (if any) traffic interruptions.
This ride is really shade in most parts, so it’s still great even on hot, sunny summer afternoons. As you can see in my pics below, much of the route passes gorgeous forests.
Bristol Harbor is so gorgeous. I love seeing the boats. Everything about this path just says summer to me; the beautiful green trees, the tranquil waterfront scenery, and the access to parks.
If you can time ending your ride around sunset, the views are really incredible. I recommend starting in Independence Park in Bristol. This is a small park with a walkway and some picnic tables. You can walk over to a small seasonal ice cream shop called Gray’s to refuel and treat yourself after all that exercise. All the ice cream is handmade; flavors include creative options like cherry vanilla, orange pineapple, and maple walnut.
Tips for a great ride
- Plan for at least 3 hours if you intend on completing the entire trail, round trip, longer if you are a beginner.
- Bring with snacks and water. There are stops along the way, but they are far and few between.
- Bring with your camera – this path offers spectacular viewpoints every mile!
- Watch out for the traffic intersections, especially when biking downhill. Give yourself plenty of time to slow down.
Where to Park
Independence Park in Bristol – Located on Thames St in Bristol
Veterans Memorial Parkway in East Providence – North Parking Lot in East Providence
Where to eat
Quito’s is a popular family seafood restaurant. The setting is casual with a great outdoor patio for the summer season. Conveniently, it is located near Independence Park. Of course, your best bet is to bring your own lunch and enjoy the natural surroundings.
I recommend either packing a picnic lunch in your car and enjoying it after your ride or wearing a backpack and enjoying a nice quiet lunch surrounded by nature at Haines.
