Newport’s famous Cliff Walk offers one of America’s most spectacular coastal experiences, combining breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views with glimpses of historic Gilded Age mansions. This unique 3.5-mile pathway has been drawing visitors for over a century, providing an unforgettable journey along Rhode Island’s rugged shoreline. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely family stroll or an adventurous coastal hike, the Cliff Walk delivers stunning scenery at every turn.
1. What it is, exactly
Newport’s Cliff Walk stands as the only trail of its kind, officially designated as a National Recreation Trail for good reason.
Ocean spray mingles with architectural grandeur as you traverse this coastal marvel. Public access rights dating back centuries ensure everyone can enjoy this spectacular route.
The trail perfectly balances natural beauty with historical significance, creating an experience unlike anywhere else in New England.
2. How long it is
Stretching 3.5 miles from start to finish, the complete Cliff Walk journey typically takes two to three hours at a comfortable pace. Most visitors don’t realize they can easily customize their adventure using multiple access points.
Smart walkers often tackle shorter segments, especially families with young children or those pressed for time. The beauty lies in flexibility – you control your own coastal adventure.
Remember, this distance covers one direction only, so plan accordingly if you’re not arranging pickup transportation at the opposite end.
3. Where to start and finish
Memorial Boulevard at Easton’s Beach marks the popular northern starting point, offering ample parking and easy beach access. This bustling area provides restrooms and snack options before your coastal journey begins.
The southern terminus near Bailey’s Beach off Bellevue Avenue presents a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere. Many walkers prefer starting north and heading south, saving the more challenging terrain for when they’re warmed up.
Either direction works wonderfully, though northbound walkers face slightly more uphill sections during the easier portions.
4. Major access points for shorter walks
Strategic entry points transform the Cliff Walk into bite-sized adventures perfect for any schedule. Narragansett Avenue at Forty Steps offers the most famous mid-trail access, complete with that iconic stone staircase.
Webster Street, Sheppard Avenue, and Ruggles Avenue provide convenient neighborhood entries without the crowds. Marine Avenue and Ledge Road serve the southern sections beautifully.
These multiple access points mean you can explore different sections on separate visits, gradually experiencing the entire trail’s diverse personality and varying difficulty levels.
5. Easiest family section
Families with strollers and young adventurers should head straight for the Easton’s Beach to Forty Steps segment. This golden 0.7-mile stretch features mostly paved surfaces and gentle grades that won’t exhaust little legs.
While not technically ADA-compliant, this section accommodates most mobility needs better than anywhere else along the route. Wide pathways and sturdy railings provide extra security for nervous parents.
Ocean views remain spectacular throughout this easier portion, proving you don’t need to tackle challenging terrain for incredible coastal scenery and memorable family photos.
6. Signature photo stop: Forty Steps
Every Newport visitor needs that perfect Cliff Walk photo, and Forty Steps delivers Instagram gold every single time. This magnificent stone staircase cascades dramatically down to wave-battered rocks below.
Built in the 1920s, these steps once served as a private access point for wealthy summer residents. Today, they represent the Cliff Walk’s most photographed and beloved landmark.
Visit during golden hour for magical lighting, but expect crowds during peak season. The steps also serve as an excellent rest stop and turning-around point for shorter walks.
7. Current detour you should expect
Storm damage has temporarily closed the section between Narragansett Avenue and Webster Street, but don’t let this derail your coastal plans. Clearly marked inland detours guide visitors safely around the affected area.
City crews continue working on repairs, though completion dates remain flexible depending on weather conditions. The detour adds minimal distance while keeping everyone safe from unstable cliff edges.
Check current conditions before visiting, as coastal storms can occasionally impact other sections. The majority of the trail remains open and spectacular as ever.
8. Parking basics
Metered parking at Memorial Boulevard near Easton’s Beach offers the most spaces, though summer weekends fill up fast. Narragansett Avenue near Forty Steps provides another solid option with shorter time limits.
Read those parking signs carefully – Newport takes enforcement seriously, especially during tourist season. Some areas switch between paid and free parking depending on the time of year.
Smart visitors arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid both parking hassles and crowds. Consider walking or biking from downtown Newport if staying nearby.
