John H. Chafee Nature Preserve
Boston Neck Road (Route 1A), North Kingstown
Known to many simply as Rome Point, the Chafee Nature Preserve is one of the few natural spaces in Rhode Island that may be more popular in winter than any other season. The reason is that harbor seals migrate into this area in October and stay through the spring. If you pick a calm, clear day and arrive close to low tide, you’re sure to catch a glimpse of these curious creatures. Just be certain to bring binoculars or, better yet, a spotting scope so you can really enjoy observing the seals.
Length: 2.9 miles
Difficulty: challenging for children
Dogs: are welcome, so long as they are leashed and you clean up after them
Accessible by Public Transportation: within 0.2 mile
Click here for a list of guidelines for hiking with kids.
Click here to visit the Chafee Nature Preserve website.
Click here to visit the Rome Point Seals website.