Ninigret Wildlife Refuge, Rhode Island

Another of my favorite spots is Ninigret Wildlife Refuge, located in the town next to where I used to live in Rhode Island. The refuge is located on a reclaimed WWII airstrip that adjoins the coastal lagoon of Ninigret Pond, which was formed by a terminal moraine from the last of the retreating glaciers. Encompassing mixed wetland habitat that includes salt and freshwater marshes, kettle ponds, and scrub forest, the refuge provides a vital stop for migratory birds and a protected area for marine bottom dwellers. Alex and I have always enjoyed walking on the trails here, observing the birds and the views of the pond. It’s a gorgeous place and always a peaceful area to take a jaunt.

There are a few miles of trails in the refuge to choose from and we decided to mostly follow the Cross Refuge Trail that runs along the shore before cutting inland across the marsh and scrub forest. It was a spectacular day weather-wise and a very enjoyable walk. The views were as gorgeous as always and we spotted multiple flocks of birds overhead and in the trees.