Archive for the ‘ Desert Trail ’ Category

Desert Trail – Portsmouth

  • Desert Trail
  • Narragansett Avenue, Portsmouth, RI
  • Trailhead:  41°37’29.07″N, 71°19’6.76″W (1 mile from ferry)
  • Last Time Hiked: July 28, 2018
  • Approximate distance hiked: 0.9 miles
  • Fairly easy with some elevation.

 

One of the newest trails cut by the Prudence Conservancy climbs uphill from Narragansett Avenue into an area once known as the Desert. This one mile area, previously used for farming, lost its topsoil over the years from erosion. Now the Desert offers pitch pine and scrub oak trees among the stone walls of the old farm. The trail is just under a half mile in length and ends at the Deer Chase Run. The trail is blazed with cactus signs.

 

NOTE: If you plan on hiking on Prudence Island, be known that the island is not commercialized. There are no restaurants, lodging, or transportation services. There are no public restrooms on the island except a composting toilet by the T-Wharf at the southern end of the island, which is several miles from most hikes. Once you are off the ferry you are on your own. Bring everything you will need for a day hike with no services. Furthermore, ticks are in abundance on the island. It is necessary to take precautions including proper clothing, sprays, and frequent checks.

 

 

Trail map not on-line yet. Can be purchased at the NBNERR Lab and Learning Center at South Prudence.

TWRI-02Desert

Stone Wall Along The Desert Trail