The cliff walk is quite nice with some beautiful views, but the 'cliffs' are at best 10-15ft above sea level for most of the walk. It also can be pretty crowded in the area North of The Breakers mansion, where it is mostly a smooth concrete walkway. The path is narrow, and a serious hiker finds her-/himself often 'trapped' behind larger groups of folks strolling along at a very relaxed pace, in particular when walking from North to South. It reminded of a walk through a crowded mall at times. South of The Breakers, more and more stretches of unpaved, bare and sometimes rather steep rocks or muddy trails are interspersed. Once the stream of people heading South reaches the first unpaved stretches, all those folks with unsuitable footwear and little children have to literally scramble and crawl over the rocks to reach the next trail exit (there are only a few) and most walk back through the streets. For these reasons, the most spectacular and fun areas of the walk near the tip of the peninsula are also the most peace- and joyful for more serious hikers. I therefore recommend to start at the Southern tip of the peninsula, and walk against the stream of people. Oh, the paved parts of the cliff walk seem to be under constant construction. It can happen that one has to leave the path and walk for a couple of blocks through the town, in particular in the Northern areas. Another nuisance were a rather unusually high number of dog poop piles in many unpaved areas. This and the sometimes tricky climb over the rocks require to watch...
Read moreOur recent visit to the Cliff Walk in Newport, RI, was an unforgettable experience! This scenic walk offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and a unique glimpse into Newport's historic mansions.
The trail is well-maintained and stretches for about 3.5 miles, combining the natural beauty of the rugged coastline with the grandeur of the Gilded Age mansions. We started at the beginning of the walk near Easton’s Beach and were immediately struck by the stunning ocean vistas. The sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs added a serene soundtrack to our walk.
As we continued, we were treated to up-close views of some of Newport’s most famous mansions, like The Breakers and Rosecliff. The contrast between the wild, natural beauty of the cliffs and the opulence of these historic homes was truly captivating.
The path varies in difficulty, with some parts being smooth and easy to navigate, while others are a bit more rugged and require careful footing. It's advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring some water, especially if you plan to do the entire trail.
The Cliff Walk is accessible year-round, and each season offers its own charm. We found it to be a peaceful escape, perfect for a leisurely walk, photography, or just soaking in the beauty of nature.
Overall, the Cliff Walk is a must-do activity when visiting Newport. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and architecture. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’ll find the experience both refreshing and inspiring. Highly...
Read moreThe Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island is a stunning and picturesque trail that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the famous Newport mansions. The trail is a 3.5-mile long public walkway that winds along the coast, offering visitors a unique combination of natural beauty and architectural history. The walk is easy and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with well-maintained paths and plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.
One of the highlights of the Cliff Walk is the opportunity to see some of the most iconic and historic mansions in Newport, including The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff. These grand homes were built by America's wealthiest families during the Gilded Age and are a testament to the opulence and luxury of that era. The views of the ocean are also spectacular, with rugged cliffs and crashing waves providing a dramatic contrast to the manicured lawns and gardens of the mansions. Visitors can spot seals, seabirds and other marine life in the waters below.
The Cliff Walk also has several parks and picnic areas where visitors can take a break and enjoy a picnic or a snack. Overall, the Cliff Walk in Newport is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area. The combination of natural beauty and architectural history make it a unique and unforgettable experience. The walk is well-maintained, easy to navigate and offers a great way to explore Newport's rich history and...
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