Ask Jackie: Dog Days of Summer

Take a hike but don’t forget Spike! Beat the summer heat and enjoy nature all in one fell swoop as you take your pup through some of Rhode Island’s best hiking trails. What’s better than having your canine counterparts with you as you enjoy all that the Ocean State has to offer? Don’t know where to start? Jackie Brown has done her part! Take a look at our short list of hiking places you don’t want to miss.

You’ll find a plethora of pups and their parents along this pond nestled in our capital city. Roger Williams Pond Trail is a well-traveled route suitable for all ages. This 3.8-mile loop was no match for Jackie Brown: with plenty of smells and leaves to chase, the city trail gets a thumbs up from our girl.

Dog-diaries don’t write themselves! You have to give your canine friends something to write about. Bring your precious pals along with you to the Newport Cliff Walk to take in breathtaking views along this historic landmark. As Jackie Brown trotted on down sniffing the saltwater air, nature provided plenty of fodder for a pawfect log in that dog-diary of hers.

Looking to step away from the hustle and bustle of her first two hikes, Jackie hopped on her Vespa and headed to West Greenwich. Surrounded by an abundance of protected forest, Tillinghast Pond Management Area offers several different trails. Whether you’re looking to take a short walk or hike your tail off, Tillinghast Pond has what you’re looking for in a serene setting perfect for adventure.

Looking for something further south? As a Rhode Islander, you know that means to pack a lunch and head to Westerly. Jackie packed up her treats for the trek and did just that. The 550-acre Grills Preserve, part of The Westerly Land Trust, has many wide, flat paths for an easy stroll in the woods. Walk along the Pawcatuck River and enjoy the sounds of nature with ease.

After our long trip to Westerly, we hugged the coast, hopped over a couple of bridges and headed to Tiverton. With over five miles of walking trails, this peaceful, unique setting is surrounded by a blanket of over 600 miles of nature. Jackie enjoyed her tranquil trek at Weetamoo Woods. She’ll be back there soon to test out the additional trails at abutting Pardon Gray Preserve!

Jackie’s final stop on this whirlwind tour was in the beach town of Narragansett. The historic, 175-acre farm includes a relaxing, easy 1.5-mile trail to round out our adventures. A perfect place to spend the day with family or friends for some outdoor fun, Canonchet Farm rounds out our list.

Still looking for more to explore? Click here for a comprehensive list of places to party with your pup in nature. Happy trails make happy tails.