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 Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge by accident while looking for a beach in the area. It is located right down the road. I am glad that we decided to drive down the road because the trails here were peaceful and provided gorgeous views!
The refuge includes a visitor’s center, 2 nature trails, and scenic overlooks. The Visitor’s Center provided useful information about the wildlife found within the refuge, which includes over 200 different bird species, 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.
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.Beautiful ocean views surround you as you walk through the peaceful landscapes. There are several lookout spots along the way for great photography.
A few views of the Ocean View Loop path…
A few scenic views from the overlooks along the trail…
Sachueast Point National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to get away from the crowds for those looking for a relaxing, peaceful, nature experience. This trail is a great way to get some exercise in while also taking great photographs and enjoying wildlife viewing and coastal views. Highly recommended!
Trail Map
Address: 769 Sachuest Point Road Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
Trail Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Visitor’s Center Hours: 10:00am-4:00pm
Parking is free!
Tips
*Check for ticks! My boyfriend 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, it’s best to check right away.
*Watch out for poison ivy along the trails. Avoid any 3 leaved plants just to be safe.
*Bring with insect repellent, sunscreen, and a water bottle. There are no water stations along the trails.
*Bring with a camera! Lots of great scenic overlooks for taking spectacular views!
*Bring with a picnic lunch and enjoy the views from the refuge! You can see all the way over to Second Beach.
*Bring with your workout clothes for a scenic run. The trail is flat enough for a scenic jog. Running is a lot easier when you have fantastic views!
*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 heat.
*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.
