As anyone who’s spent time running in Rhode Island knows, our little state packs a lot of beauty into its borders. Whether you’re training for your next half marathon or just squeezing in a few miles before brunch, there’s no shortage of scenic, runner-friendly routes across the Ocean State.
We put together a list of five of our favorite places to run—routes that offer stunning views, soft surfaces, and enough variety to keep your training fresh. Some are built for long runs, some are quick and scenic, and all of them will remind you why lacing up in Rhode Island is something special.
Let’s hit the road:
If you’ve ever run a Rhode Races event in Bristol, Barrington or East Providence, there’s a good chance you’ve already experienced the East Bay Bike Path. And if you haven’t yet—trust us—it’s a must.
Stretching over 14 miles from India Point Park in Providence to Independence Park in Bristol, this path runs along the shore of Narragansett Bay, offering up panoramic views, shaded stretches, and a few glimpses of lighthouses and sailboats along the way. The flat, paved surface is perfect for tempo runs, long weekend efforts, or easy recovery jogs with friends.
Locals love it. Visitors remember it. And you’ll never regret the miles you log here.
Situated on the East Side of Providence, Blackstone Boulevard is a beloved route for city runners. The 1.7-mile path runs down the center of a wide, tree-lined median and is surfaced with compacted stone dust—firmer than a trail, softer than pavement, and easy on the legs.
While it’s bordered by a fairly busy road, the median offers a separate, scenic space that’s well-used by runners, walkers, and locals out enjoying the day. Weekends can get lively, but there’s something energizing about being part of a shared routine in one of the city’s most iconic green spaces.
Loop it for a steady midweek run, a tempo effort, or a relaxed stroll—it fits just about any kind of workout.
Looking for a run that doubles as sightseeing? The Cliff Walk in Newport is unmatched. This 3.5-mile coastal trail winds between rocky shorelines and historic mansions, offering postcard-worthy ocean views the entire way.
The route combines paved walkways with more rugged terrain, so while it’s not ideal for speedwork, it’s perfect for a slower jog or a mental reset. You’ll want to stop and take it all in—so don’t forget your phone or camera.
Tucked away in South County, this 7-mile paved trail connects Kingston Station to Narragansett, passing through forests, wetlands, and quiet neighborhoods. It’s well-shaded in the summer, peaceful year-round, and rarely crowded—a great option when you want a smooth, uninterrupted run.
The proximity to Narragansett Beach makes this route extra rewarding—cool down with a dip in the ocean or grab a post-run coffee nearby.
If road running isn’t your thing—or if you’re looking to get a little dirty—the North–South Trail might be exactly what you need. This 77-mile trail stretches from Charlestown all the way to the Massachusetts border in Burrillville, weaving through state parks, quiet forests, lakes, and boggy lowlands.
Of course, you don’t need to run all 77 miles. Many runners pick a section and do an out-and-back or point-to-point. The Arcadia Management Area offers some of the most runnable sections, while other parts feel more rugged and remote.
It’s the kind of trail where you leave your watch behind and just run. Breathe in the pine. Listen to the birds. Forget the world for a few miles.
Rhode Island may be small, but its running routes offer a variety of experiences—urban and wild, flat and hilly, seaside and wooded. Whether you’re here for a race, a long weekend, or just looking to switch up your routine, we hope these routes give you something to look forward to.
Have a favorite route we didn’t mention? Drop us a comment or tag us in your next run—we’re always looking to explore new paths.
Happy running,
