Charlestown Moraine Preserve
Charlestown, Town of Charlestown
1.9 miles of trail
Moderate
Hunting is not allowed here but it is permitted on nearby land. Wear blaze orange during hunting season. More information
Click on the "Trail Map (PDF)" button to download a PDF of the trail map that you can print and take with you on the trail.
Avenza maps are special, free maps that you can use in the Avenza app on your smart phone. These maps let you see your location on the map as you walk. Download the Avenza App for free in the Apple App Store or on Google Play
Click on the Avenza Trail Map button to "purchase" the free map for this trail from the Avenza map store. If this is your first time, Avenza will ask you to set up an account to check out. However, all Avenza trail maps listed on ExploreRI are free.
In Rhode Island the primary hunting seasons typically run from the second Saturday in September to the last day of February and from the third Saturday in April to the last day in May, however this can vary from year to year and depends on what game is being hunted. During hunting season you should wear at least 200 square inches (a hat OR a vest) of blaze orange. During shotgun deer season, which is typically in December, you should wear at least 500 square inches of blaze orange (a hat AND a vest). For more information see the RI DEM website.
The Charlestown Moraine Preserve marks the southern edge of the continental ice sheet during the last Ice Age. Now the land here is heavily vegetated with various types of trees, dense stands of Mountain Laurel and extensive stands of ferns and low bush huckleberry. It is well known as an area for both migratory and resident bat species. There are several vernal pools as well.
The property is bordered on the south by Route 1 and on the north by Kings Factory Road and by property that is part of the Narragansett Indian Reservation. As a result, the property is made up of two triangle shaped areas with an interconnected trail system. The Preserve’s trails wind over small but steep ridges, many going through thick groves of Mountain Laurel; glorious in spring when they are in bloom. The footing in some areas can be a bit rough so walkers should be cautious. From some of the high points there are seasonal ocean views of Block Island and Ninigret Salt Pond.
This Preserve is maintained by the Charlestown Conservation Commission.
Charlestown Conservation Commission web page
Trails and Walks Rhode Island's description of a hike at this preserve
Dogs: Must be leashed or under voice command
Kings Factory Road parking lot Trailhead
Driving Landmarks: The parking lot is on Kings Factory Road (also called BIA Route 411) about 0.4 miles from Route 1
Parking: Yes: Parking lot, 15 spaces, no overnight parking
ADA Accessible Parking Spaces? No
Coordinates: 41° 23.146' N 71° 39.982' W See this location in: Google Maps Acme Maps
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This site report was last updated on April 29, 2020