Great Swamp

The Great Swamp in Kingston RI is a 3400 acre RI Management Area. If you are the opportunity to see different things on your hike, this is the location for you. On the this hike you are likely to see ospreys, geese, other migratory birds, beavers, and turtles. You will hike along an earthen dike and power lines in addition to woodlands, fields, (and for the adventurous a pond.) This hike is best done in the spring when birds are returning and before mosquito season starts.

The main trail is 4 miles long. Starting at the gate follow the trail 1/2 mi to an intersection with a marker honoring Dr John Mulleedy. You will be taking the right fork. (Choose the left if you want to take the longer trail (~5.5 miles) and visit Worden's pond and the remains of an old seaplane hangar. This route has many minor side trails and one can easily get lost. Only follow this trail if you have a map and are a capable hiker.)

For the route we are describing, take the right fork. After turning right at the marker, follow the trail through fields (some recently cleared) until you reach another intersection, again go right (you will be returning on the left fork. Soon you will reach the wildlife marsh. Inside it you are likely to see various wildlife and birds. Following the trail on the berm, you will pass under power lines. Atop the poles you can see osprey nests.

At the end of the marsh you will have the option of going straight (away from the marsh) or turning left (north). Turn left and head up the road (slight incline.) You will will eventually pass under the power lines again and shortly reconnect with the trail you entered on. Turn right and retrace your steps back to your car.

Getting there: From RI 138, turn west onto Liberty Lane. (The road connects to 138 near the river access to Chipuxet River and behind the TLC coffee roaster.) Follow for about a mile until it meets the railroad track. Turn left and follow the gravel road for about another mile until it reaches a parking lot with a barred gate.