Carr Pond and Tarbox Pond

8/10 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊Mommy Approved Smiling Faces

1.  Carr Pond Road ( I preferred this trail over the second one which is in the same area)

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/rhode-island/carr-s-pond-via-slab-run-and-ring-road

( no parking lot here -park on side of the road.  This hike encircles the pond)

2.  Hopkins Hill Rd

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/rhode-island/carrs-pond-and-tarbox-pond

( this area has a pretty bit parking lot)

It’s really pretty and relaxing at Carr Pond and Tarbox Pond.  Maybe it’s the fishing lifestyle that I’m referring to? It just has a laid back and serine vibe here.  We loved darting around the rocks and tree roots on this uneven terrain. The trees were tall and the pond views, gorgeous.  We have yet to really delve into fishing, but if your family likes it, there are always several people fishing here.  Non-motorized boating is also something that people tend to enjoy. On Tarbox Pond as there is a boat launch access site. 

We went to Carr Pond a handful of times now.  We walk different trails, and wander more because we feel more familiar with the area. There are so many trails here to explore so the versatility keeps us interested.  Every time we go it’s a different season and there’s always something new to see. We look forward to returning with each season to catch a different view of the trail. The four seasons in New England really allow you to appreciate the current season by giving it’s perks for a brief while and then taking it away for a whole year. Us New Englanders really make the best of each season and adapt just like the land switching between sneakers, flip flops and boots as needed.   If you enjoy the four seasons, this trail is fun to catch during each one.

 

The Skinny:

• Weather :  A favorable day weather-wise because it is completely outdoors here
• Pricing & Admissions : The parking / admissions here is FREE
• Location : About 4 miles of trails that explore the woods and the ponds with a boat ramp for canoeing and kayaking, fishing, mountain biking, hiking.  There is a small beach for relaxing and playing in the shoreline.  Swimming is not permitted due to a lack of life guard presence but you will find evidence that it happens via rope swings. 
• Parking : There is street parking for the first trail and a big parking lot for the second trail
• Hours : Open daily  
• Duration :  We stayed here about 3-4 hours each time
• Tips and Recommendations :  If your kids are like mine and enjoy animals and water views, the first trail is the one that you will want to explore.  If the woods with some water views is your thing, try the lengthier second trail.  Dogs and mountain bikers are commonly seen here.  Take bug spray!
• Cons :  I wish there was a parking lot for both trails as street parking is not ideal.

Jewel Approved 👍🏼

Jamison Approved 👍🏼

 

Other points of interest while in the area include: Make a Mess,  Goddard Park, and Biomes.