The Fantastic Rhode Island Park For Fall Strolls That Used To Be The Town Dump

All Photos Are Courtesy Of PattyJ.com.

Who could or would have guessed that in another life this scenic spot in North Kingstown used to be the town dump?

Certainly not yours truly, but I did do a little entry level online research and that interesting tidbit popped up almost immediately.

Another thing you’ll want to know before you go?

There are two entrances to the 350 acre Ryan Park, one on Ten Rod Road and another over on Lafayette.

It’s an utterly gorgeous spot for a fall hike, for getting your daily steps in while taking in the early stages of fall foliage in the 401. 

Furthermore, if you have a dog in your life, you’re going to want to bookmark this local park. Last time we were there, we passed a number of people with pooches in tow.

Also, we encountered some pretty big piles of horse poop on one of the routes that overlooks Belleville Pond, so be aware: Look DOWN and wear sturdy shoes or boots that you won’t cry over if or when they end up damaged or ruined. (You are WELCOME!)

In addition to the dog walkers and that memorable (ugh 😫) horse manure, we have spied folks fishing near the dam (see photo above) as well as quite a few mountain bikers zipping up and down the trails. 

I also understand that in the winter, quite a few cold weather enthusiasts will snowshoe in the park (which reminds me of a sad but beautiful movie starring Julie Christie from a few years ago called Away From Her).

Finally, make sure your phone is charged and ready to go because Ryan Park is a fab locale for taking autumnal phone photos to upload to your social app of choice. 

Find Ryan Park on Oak Hill Road in North KIngstown, Rhode Island.

This post has been revised from one that has appeared previously on the site.