Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge – Nature, Scenic views, & Serenity
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Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful 242 acre refugee, which occupies a peninsula between the Sakonnet River and Rhode Island Sound. We found this beautiful hidden gem by accident while looking for a beach in the area. It is located right down the road from Second Beach. I am glad that we decided to drive down the road because the trails here were so peaceful and the scenery was amazing. I love hiking any trail with peaceful water scenery in the background (it’s so motivating!).
The refuge includes a visitor’s center, 2 nature trails, and scenic overlooks. At the Visitor Center, you learn about the wildlife found within the refuge. We learned that the refuge provides habitat to 200 different bird species, various reptiles, and 9 different mammals such as white tailed deer, raccoon, and red foxes. If you are lucky you might spot a harbor seal along the shore. Unfortunately, we did not see much wildlife on our hike asides from birds.
Hiking at Sachuest
The refuge offers a few short trails, nothing too intense. Most trails are under a mile in length. We decided to take the 1.5 mile hike around the Ocean View Loop. The well maintained trail is very tranquil and relaxing. Along the way you will pass beautiful salt marshes and grassland. I felt like this was such a wonderful, fresh summer hike. It wasn’t too long or intense, and the ocean scenery was so tranquil. This is really a trail where you can refresh, rejuvenate, connect with nature, and forget about your problems for a little bit. There are several lookouts along the way where you can take great photos.
The highlight of this preserve over others in the region is the beautiful coastal views. There are so many beautiful places to explore in Newport and surrounding towns. I love that you can get in a great workout and enjoy beautiful scenery at the same time pretty much everywhere. It’s a win-win situation: you get to “skip the gym” but still technically get in a workout. Enjoy a few views from our hike along the Ocean loop.
The best place to enjoy nature near Newport!
This refuge is a great place to escape the summer tourist crowds, especially for those seeking a relaxing, peaceful nature experience. It’s a great summer recreation choice. You basically get to enjoy nature and a nice walk without feeling like you are engaging in a rough and tough hiking trek. Hiking any trail here is a great opportunity to get in some exercise in while also taking great photographs and enjoying wildlife and bird watching.
If you are looking to bypass the Newport Mansion and beach traffic, a walk at Sachuest is an ideal alternative. I also recommend walking Cliffwalk if you are looking for more great views and a longer workout.
Additional Info
Address: 769 Sachuest Point Road Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
Trail Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Visitor’s Center Hours: 10:00am-2:00pm
Parking is free!
Tips for a great visit
*Check for ticks! Mike found one crawling on his neck a few hours after our hike – luckily we found it in time. There are several grassy areas along the trail, and thus, it’s best to check consistently. Lyme disease is very common in most of New England. Cases are exploding in recent years, so please wear long pants and keep out of grassy areas as much as possible.
*Watch out for poison ivy along the trails. Avoid any 3 leaf plants just to be safe.
*Bring with insect repellent, sunscreen, and a water bottle. There are no water stations along the trails.
*Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the views from the refuge! You can see all the way over to Second Beach. If you prefer to dine out, Blue Plate Diner is a wonderful local cafe serving scratch made food in a fun retro 50’s style setting.
*Consider challenging yourself to a jog. The trail is flat enough for a leisurely run. Running is a lot easier when you have fantastic views to motivate yourself!
*Visit early in the morning before it gets too hot. We visited during mid-day and wish we would have arrived earlier to avoid the afternoon heat. Summers can be really hot and humid. Spring is the best time to hike comfortably.
*Second Beach (one of the best in New England) is located just down the street, so bring your beach gear with if you want to head over before or after your refuge center visit. You can read more about my beach day.
