Hike the Ridge Loop Trail, Macedonia Brook SP

For a quick weekend trip from Newport, RI, Macedonia Brook State Park had a lot to offer for its size. In three or four hours, with lunch, you can hike the 6.4 mile ridge trail and get some fresh air without having to hike on too busy of trails. The elevation gain is only around 700 ft, however, the trail rises and falls regularly from ridge to gully, changing the feel of the air and foliage more than one would think.

This hike is especially beautiful in the fall, as the leaves begin to turn. You may not see much wildlife beyond deer and some squirrels, but the sound of woodpeckers and an orchestra of song birds make for a relaxing ambiance.

The park has campsites available, but no back country camping, even for Joe Blow with his hammock! If you find yourself in this situation, don't fret over where you'll be hitting the sack after the Ridge Loop Trail. Just a short drive from Macedonia State Park, headed south as if you were going back to Kent, turn on Skiff Mountain Road which turns into River Road. You will be paralleling the Housatonic River where eventually, keeping to the right, you will see a big sign for the Appalachian Trail. Keep on going till the road dead ends, put it in park, pack your gear and snag a trail map from the head of the trail and kick rocks to the north on the AT. There are designated camping sites and shelters starting only a couple miles from there right next to the meandering Housatonic. The third photo I've added will show you an obvious reason why camping on the Housatonic can be pretty special. Enjoy!