Best Backpacking Destinations in Providence, United States

1. Colt State Park

Enjoy a scenic coastal backpacking experience with sandy beaches and historic landmarks.

Experience solitude and wildlife on this uninhabited island in Narragansett Bay.

Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to various bird species, seals, and other marine life.
Boat Access Only: Requires a boat or kayak to reach the island.
Remote Experience: Offers a unique, secluded backpacking adventure.

Cycle and backpack along this scenic paved path connecting Providence to neighboring towns.

Scenic Views: Offers picturesque views of the coastline, bridges, and parks.
Flat Terrain: Ideal for backpacking with minimal elevation changes.
Rest Stops: Features rest areas, bike shops, and cafes along the route.

Explore diverse forests, lakes, and trails within Rhode Island's beautiful state parks.

Follow this famous coastal path for stunning views of mansions and the ocean.

Coastal Scenery: Breathtaking ocean views along the hiking trails.
Historic Mansions: Pass by iconic mansions built by the Vanderbilts and Astors.
Challenging Terrain: Requires good balance and agility to navigate rocky sections.

Discover colonial charm in this picturesque seaside town with historic sites.

Historic Sites: Visit the Old Bristol Jail Museum, Bristol Town Hall, and Colt's Mansion and Gardens.
Scenic Waterfront: Enjoy waterfront dining and shopping on Thames Street.
Small-Town Charm: Experience the friendly, welcoming atmosphere of a classic New England town.

Escape to this idyllic island with stunning beaches, lighthouses, and wildlife.

Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing on pristine beaches.
Lighthouses: Visit the historic North Lighthouse and Southeast Light at Mohegan Bluffs.
Wildlife Watching: Spot seals, dolphins, and birds along the coastline.

Relax on this quiet beach with scenic views of Narragansett Bay.

Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking ocean views from the beach.
Quiet Beach: Less crowded than other Providence beaches, making it perfect for relaxation.
Restroom Facilities: Offers restrooms and changing rooms near the beach.

Cycle through beautiful countryside along this paved path.

Scenic Rural Landscapes: Offers picturesque views of farms, forests, and wetlands.
Flat Terrain: Ideal for backpacking with minimal elevation changes.
Rest Stops: Features rest areas, bike shops, and cafes along the route.

Experience vibrant beach culture in this popular summer destination.

Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches, such as Towers Beach and Scarborough State Beach.
Dining and Nightlife: Enjoy a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options along the main street.
Surfing: Try your hand at surfing or watch experts ride the waves.

Step back in time at this living history museum dedicated to America's maritime heritage.

Historic Ships and Boats: Explore a range of historic vessels, including tall ships, fishing boats, and steam engines.
Interactive Exhibits: Participate in demonstrations of traditional crafts like boat building and blacksmithing.
Historic Village: Walk through a re-created 19th-century seafaring village with restored homes, businesses, and maritime artifacts.

Tour opulent mansions built by the Vanderbilts and other wealthy families during the Gilded Age.

Historic Architecture: Admire the grandeur of these stunning estates, some designed by famous architects.
Garden Tours: Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring rare plants and flowers.
Interior Design: Marvel at the intricate woodwork, fine art, and furnishings found within these mansions.

Cycle along the Providence River, passing historic sites and modern attractions.

Scenic Views: Offers views of the city skyline, riverfront parks, and historic buildings.
Flat Terrain: Ideal for backpacking with minimal elevation changes.
Rest Stops: Features rest areas, bike shops, and cafes along the route.

Explore one of America's oldest and most prestigious universities.

Historic Architecture: Marvel at the iconic architecture, including the Renaissance Revival-style Providence Performing Arts Center.
Academic Buildings: Visit world-renowned libraries, museums, and research facilities.
Green Spaces: Relax in beautiful gardens and parks, such as the Rooftop Garden at Brown's John Hay Library.

Discover a variety of animals in this beautifully landscaped urban zoo.

Animal Exhibits: See elephants, lions, giraffes, and other exotic animals from around the world.
Garden Tours: Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring rare plants and flowers.
Conservation Efforts: Support conservation efforts by learning about the zoo's initiatives to protect wildlife.