Located some ways down a rural area on the border of Ashaway RI, Westerly Town Forest is a quaint spot for anyone who finds solace when venturing into the woods.
Traveling down Laurel Ave, Westerly RI, the winding trails can be found on the left side of this road, welcomed by a ‘Westerly Town Forest’ entrance with roughly two-hundred acres of land and tall trees.
As it is mentioned by locals, the overall area is not too steep with hills, and this is probably what helps a safe exploration. Young/elderly folk and dog-walker friendly, the forest is rich and green, having great markers and maps along the way.
On the northern side of the establishment, there is a waterfront helping to preserve the Pawcatuck River (CT borderline), known to coexist with nearby swamp lands.
Although there haven’t been many rumors of rare species residing within the hard-wood lands, climate changes and current research could provide some evidence of new friends to the reservation. The times are a-changing.
For those who are interested in a more in-depth analysis of some biological standpoints and observation, this is a link of a recent study in 2006: www.westerly.govoffice.com › uploads
(note: it is a PDF file)
Ive had the opportunity to visit this place on several occasions with friends and neighbors. So far, its been a very calm and relaxing experience. I’ve brought a book out there a few times. You don’t exactly find yourself to be straining to get to the top of a mountain (those can be fun too), though you certainly get some healthy blood-flow after about a two-mile hike on some of these chosen paths.
A total of four hiking trails can be enjoyed in this particular spot, and makes for some great sights of the sun setting along some valleys near the power lines. It’s a serene place, and great to check out if you haven’t already!
