Washington Secondary Rail Trail Loop

The full loop is about 32.5 kilometers (20.2 miles) long. For a touring cyclist, it generally takes around 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

As a converted rail-trail, it's predominantly flat and mostly paved, making it suitable for a wide range of cyclists. You'll encounter a gradual uphill slope when heading from east to west, and a slight downhill grade from west to east. Some sections, particularly in Cranston and West Warwick, can be bumpy due to tree roots affecting the pavement.

Yes, it's generally considered an easy trail, ideal for beginners and families. Its mostly flat grade and paved surface make it very accessible. Just be aware of the gradual incline if you're heading west and some potentially bumpy sections.

The trail offers varied scenery, from urban areas to rural forests. You'll cross picturesque sections of the Pawtuxet River, see old mill buildings and waterfalls, especially in West Warwick, and can spot a restored caboose in Riverpoint. The western half, including the Coventry Greenway and Trestle Trail, is particularly scenic with forested areas and views of the Flat River Reservoir. You'll also pass through the settlement of Greene.

Yes, the Washington Secondary Rail Trail Loop is a crucial part of the developing East Coast Greenway (RI). It also incorporates sections known locally as the Cranston Bike Path, Warwick Bike Path, West Warwick Greenway, Coventry Greenway, and Trestle Trail. You'll also find smaller sections of the North South Trail intersecting.

Yes, there are amenities available. Restrooms can be found at locations like Paine Field and the Coventry Recreation Center. Some sections of the trail offer direct or nearby access to shops, restaurants, and ice cream stops, especially in more urbanized areas.

While the trail is generally welcoming, it's always best to check local regulations for specific leash requirements and waste disposal rules. Many rail trails allow leashed dogs, and this trail even has an equestrian path running parallel for much of its length, suggesting a multi-use environment.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable cycling conditions with pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. The western, more forested sections provide a cool, shaded ride during warmer months due to a thicker tree canopy.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and use the Washington Secondary Rail Trail Loop. It's a public resource freely accessible to cyclists and other users.

There are multiple parking areas conveniently located along the trail, making it easy to access different sections for shorter rides. Specific parking lots are available at various points along the Cranston Bike Path, Warwick Bike Path, West Warwick Greenway, Coventry Greenway, and Trestle Trail segments.

Given that the trail is mostly paved and generally flat, a touring bicycle, hybrid bike, or even a road bike with slightly wider tires would be ideal. While most of it is smooth, the occasional bumpy sections due to tree roots mean that a mountain bike isn't strictly necessary but would handle those spots comfortably.