Fort Barton

9/10😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊 Mommy Approved Smiling Faces

360 Highland Ave.

Tiverton, RI 02878

https://exploreri.org/gSiteReport2.php?siteID=50&src=siteList

The overlook here was amazing.  After you get up a short but steep paved trail, there is a viewing platform where you can climb stairs and look into the Narragansett River. It is termed the West overlook. You can see the Bragga Bridge and the adjacent cities. The trails and natural beauty are great here. There are several areas of lowlands followed by uphills ( some with wooden steps ) and planked walking bridges. It was a really fun and beautiful hike. There were many people here so that’s definitely comforting when picking a safe walk with the kids! Prepare to see numerous happy dogs too that are absolutely enjoying their time outdoors.

We loved the many streams, brooks and vernal pools in the area. I bet some happy animals inhibit these woods.  It is rated moderate on some sites and Alltrails rates it as easy and kid friendly.  We did see several kids.  My kids loved running through the trails here but they are also no strangers to hiking so I can’t really go by them.  there were plenty of flat and low-lying grounds though.  One thing that caught me off guard was the very close sound of gunfire.  Passersby assured me that this is due to a range in close proximity and not hunting on the grounds.  I was shocked that there was no signage about it though.  It did take some of the peace away from out tranquil walk but having kids, I guess us parents are all used to unwanted noises.  It didn’t change the fact that this was an amazing hike for us.  I just want you to know if you go here to expect it.  

 

 

The Skinny: 

• Weather :  A nice, dry day ideally because it is completely outdoors and you will want a clear view from the platform
• Parking and Admissions : FREE admissions and parking but limited spaces.  some people p[ark in the adjacent neighborhoods and the street too which seemed fine.
• Location : 2.4 miles of very trafficked trail with an ocean view of the platform and wooded wetlands with serval walkways over rivers / streams throughout.
• Hours : Sunrise to a 1/2 hour after sunset everyday
• Duration : We stayed here about 2 hours or  so.
• Tips and Recommendations : Bring boots or some sort of mud friendly attire here.  you can take dogs here you do need a leash but if they are command trained they can be off leash!  That’s a great draw for pet-owners that like their dogs to run free.
• Cons : There is a gun range close by, very noisy-check out the video above to see what I mean.  Not a deal breaker for us since we loved the grounds here, just not as perfect a place as it could be.

Jewel Approved 👍🏼

Jamison Approved 👍🏼

If you liked this hike check out Little Compton’s Simmons Mill Pond.  It is less than 20 minutes away and worth a visit.