Rhode Island is a small but mighty state in New England. It’s home to many nature spots that are wonderful to explore. These spots include waterfalls that will make you feel relaxed and connected to nature. Though its waterfalls may not be as physically impressive as those in New England’s more mountainous states. Many of the waterfalls in Rhode Island come with an added bonus. Ready to plan your trip yet? If so, here are some of the best waterfalls in Rhode Island you need to put in your list.
Amazing Waterfalls in Rhode Island
Blackstone Dam, North Smithfield
The Blackstone River was formerly in the midst of the industrial revolution. Several dams were constructed in Rhode Island and neighboring Massachusetts in the 19th century. This is to provide power for its many industries. These include timber, leather, ores and metal products.
The waterfall created by this dam is not especially high, but it is impressively wide. You will be greeted by an impressive sight if you visit the falls. Pollution has been addressed but swimming and eating from the falls is not allowed. Kayaking and canoeing on the river are popular.
Wolf Hill Quarry Falls, Smithfield
This natural waterfall is accessed via the Mountaindale Road. The falls are seasonal, with the best time to visit being in the spring after the snows melt or after a period of heavy rain. Surrounded by bright green moss, they make a lovely photograph when they are in full flood. A picture in the fall can be a real stunner because of the colors of the leaves.
The area is a preserve, owned by Smithfield Land Trust, and the falls are found on a four-mile trail which has some elevation – a rarity in the relatively flat state.
Cascade Brook Falls, Smithfield
When it comes to claims of the prettiest falls in Rhode Island, Cascade Brook certainly has a case. It is a 12-foot-high waterfall in the shape of a horse’s tail on the small Ken Weber Conservation Area. They are very much a seasonal waterfall, and if you want to see them at their best, spring is the time to pick. You are not allowed to swim, but you can take a dog on a lead.
Slater Mill Dam, Pawtucket
Slater Mill is a famous National Historic Site dating back to the end of the 18th century, as industry was developing. The region is arguably the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. The dam created the power for a cotton spinning mill, with the broad waterfall still producing a lovely setting for visitors to enjoy, although the mill has long since closed. You can take a tour of the mill for a small charge or simply sit out in the fresh air for free and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Pawtucket Falls, Pawtucket
Pawtucket Falls are located half a mile upstream of where the Blackstone River meets the Seekonk River. The name means ‘’little falls’’ in the language of the Native American Narragansett Tribe. The name has been given both to the falls and the coastal village between the cities of Cranston and Warwick.
These cascades flow directly below the main bridge in the village, so you can get close; although the best viewpoint to capture the entirety of the falls is from the riverbanks below the waterfall. Postcards of the falls have always been holidaymakers’ favorites.
Horseshoe Falls, Charlestown
These quaint falls in the small village of Shannock are on the Pawtucket River. The water makes little sound as it drops, but years ago, the sounds were of the brick factories and the fabric company – which finally closed fifty years ago.
You can look upstream at the small homes of the workers, as well as the more impressive ones of the bosses. The dam is made of stone and the cascading water makes a lovely photograph.
Harrisville Falls, Burrillville
Harrisville is a lovely little village in Burrillville and the local hiking trails are proving very popular. The dam is in the middle of the town, and it was constructed in the middle of the 19th century to produce power for the textile industry. The best place to view these falls, which come down in a series of small steps, is from a nearby park.
The falls are fairly wide and the sound that the water creates mean they are impossible to miss. You can relax at the nearby Waterfall Café and hear the power of the water on its journey downstream.
Round Top Brook, Burrillville
Burrillville – a town in the north of Rhode Island – is famous for its fishing. Round Top Brook is a state-controlled area which is regularly restocked with trout, so it is not just the lovers of waterfalls that head here. The falls have a single drop and are wider than they are high. The water dropping on to rocks looks white as it bounces up, so even amateur photographers will get a lovely image.
The autumn is a good time for a visit, with the colors of the leaves providing a good contrast to the falls
Wyoming Dam, Richmond
This lovely, semicircular waterfall is away from any crowds but still accessible. The water’s route is from Wood River into Wyoming Pond before going over the dam. You can park very close to the falls and can also boat or fish here. You need to be careful because the surrounding rocks can be slippery from the spray.
Worn stone steps go down to the base of the falls and the overall craftsmanship to create an impressive arch shows the skills of construction. The dam was recently rebuilt as the water levels seemed to be falling.
Robin Hollow Pond Falls, Cumberland
Robin Hollow Pond Falls are among the most impressive on Rhode Island. After parking, you can stop on Cumberland Mills Bridge to look down at the retaining gates that create the pond and release the water to drop onto the stone. The falls themselves are just 10 feet high, but with the water falling on to that stone, the appearance is white.
A pleasant trail attracts those wanting some leisure activity, while fishermen come in numbers to Cumberland where there are a series of well-stocked ponds.
Pine Swamp Brook Falls, Coventry
This stretch of water in the George B. Parker Woodland Wildlife Refuge has a waterfall as well as some smaller cascades in the Foster section. There is a defined trail, and you will find the falls close to the bridge that crosses the stream. To get a better look, you may have to go off the trail and get through some vegetation. The whole trail is just over seven miles long and the terrain is a little difficult at times, so it is rated as moderate for hikers. The falls are best in the spring or in the colors of the fall after heavy rain.
Exploring the Waterfalls in Rhode Island
Have fun exploring the waterfalls in Rhode Island! There are many different falls to choose from, and each one has something unique to offer. Take your time to enjoy the natural beauty of these majestic landmarks.
