State Parks and National Parks

Greenways are cropping up everywhere in Rhode Island, as private and public groups work together to develop a comprehensive system of trails and bike paths.

When complete, the paved Blackstone River Bikeway will offer a 17-mile scenic bike path. Skirting the Blackstone River, the trail offers spectacular views of New England fall foliage.

The 12-foot wide bikeway will eventually link to a network of bike paths stretching from Florida to Maine, forming what is to be called the East Coast Greenway.

The pathway will support cyclists, joggers, walkers, cross-country skiers and inline skaters.

The southern foot of the Blackstone River Bikeway will eventually link to the popular East Bay Bike Path to create a continuous 31.9-mile route.

For current updates on construction progress, call the bicycle coordinator of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation at 401-222-2694, ext. 4034.

Photo credits in order: Photo by Frances Segerson, courtesy of Rhode Island Department of Transportation. Courtesy of Rhode Island Division of Parks and Recreation.