When you are traveling to Newport, Rhode Island, you absolutely must hike the iconic Cliff Walk. This spectacular location is definitely worth a visit, especially if you are interested in viewing stunning Gilded Age mansions alongside delightful panoramic ocean views.

It is open from sunrise to sunset every day. The 3.5 mile path takes about 3 hours (it took us about 4, but we were really taking our time enjoying the gorgeous views).

You can find restrooms located at Narragansett Avenue at the 40 Steps landmark, which is super convenient. There is also metered parking along this road. (When we went, this is where we parked, and it was a decent spot!)

Many of the metered spots run for 4 hours, so this is just something that you will want to be aware of. You can also find parking at the Memorial Boulevard at Easton’s Beach. Besides the parking, the Cliff Walk is free to access, which is so amazing!

As a side note, there is a free “Hop-On Hop-Off” bus that runs along route 67 by the Newport Mansions every 20 minutes, which may make it easier and faster to get back to your vehicle after your hike. This typically runs from the end of May until October, but of course, this could be subject to change.

https://www.ripta.com/newport/

Also, here is a link to an awesome map for the Cliff Walk, which will help you navigate this area!

https://www.discovernewport.org/things-to-do/cliff-walk/

The day that we set out for this hike, we felt quite lucky, because the weather was warm and breezy, but not too hot. We also decided to start it around dinner time, because we were interested in going during the “golden hour” and seeing everything in that softer light. I highly recommend going around then because it was so beautiful!

Previously, on our travels, during one of my work trips, we had visited the very famous Newport Mansions, so this time we did not do the inside tours of them, but I think if you were looking to spend the day in Newport, this would be an awesome thing to do before the Cliff Walk. The Cliff Walk actually takes you along the back of the mansions, but it would be neat if you did the tours first then the hike.

If you have never heard of the Newport Mansions, they are unique due to their historical relevance during the Gilded Age, and they are still furnished in the way that people would have seen them during that specific time period. Some of the individuals that resided in these summer houses were the Vanderbilts, the Morgans, and Astor families.

These mansions are some of the most opulent buildings you will see in America, and even have paintings on the ceilings! We were completely in awe of them and the tours are truly amazing, so I do recommend that you check them out.

https://www.newportmansions.org/

Before you start this hike, there are several things that you will want to be aware of. It is not too difficult of a hike, however you will encounter stairs, and different rocky path sections to it. It is fairly level, and we did see families going on this hike. While there are level areas to it, I would not say that it is wheelchair accessible. It is fairly easy to follow, and there is a distinct path for the whole walk which is nice.

One area that is a bit more accessible on the walk would be from Easton’s Beach to the Forty Steps landmark, since that path is a bit more level there.

As with any hike, it is crucial to always be aware of your surroundings at all times, and some of the rocky area paths do separate slightly, so you will want to be aware of your footing. Also, I would recommend bringing water, snacks, and a light jacket if you are visiting in the evening, as it might get a little windy.

From the very beginning of the hike, we were completely entranced at how beautiful it was. This is one of the best coastal hikes that you can go on when you are on the East Coast. You are really engaged with nature on this experience, and have the opportunity to view a nice variety of land formations from sandy beaches, to the rock cliffs, and of course the stunning mansions along the way.

When you are traveling to Newport, Rhode Island you absolutely need to set aside some time, and go on the Cliff Walk. It is so dreamy, and it is truly a magical experience!

Let me know in the comments if you have ever traveled here as well, and what you thought about it. I hope that you are having a wonderful day, and remember to click the like and subscribe button!

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NortheastAllie

For generations, my family has lived in the Philadelphia area, and my writing reflects these influences. This blog explores perspectives on life, encouragement, travel, health, and local living.

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