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Bike touring routes & trails
United States
Rhode Island
Kent County

Hell's Half Acre loop

Moderate

4.8

(3844)

7,823

riders

Hell's Half Acre loop

02:06

33.1km

360m

Cycling

Cycle the moderate 20.6-mile Hell's Half Acre loop in Big River Management Area, gaining 1173 feet over an estimated 2 hours and 6 minutes.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Big River Management Area

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

9.79 km

Hell's Half Acre

Highlight • Historical Site

The New London Turnpike Road was an important piece of infrastructure when it opened in 1821 linking New York with Providence. Small settlements sprang up along the unpaved road to …

Tip by

2

24.1 km

Big River Management Area

Highlight • Forest

At 8319 acres, the Big River Management area is a lush-forested area with a handful of ponds, gentle waterfalls and an overall lovely environment to be immersed in nature.

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B

33.1 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

27.9 km

4.49 km

314 m

295 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

16.4 km

16.0 km

767 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (170 m)

Lowest point (80 m)

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Weather

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Saturday 4 July

34°C

24°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hell's Half Acre loop suitable for touring cycling?

Based on available information, the Hell's Half Acre area is predominantly characterized by rugged, sharp lava rock terrain, which is generally not suitable for touring bicycles. While some very short, paved loops exist near rest areas, they do not offer a touring cycling experience and the more extensive wilderness trails would likely damage tires and equipment.

What is the terrain like on this route?

The Hell's Half Acre area is known for its unique volcanic landscape, featuring sharp, dark, and rugged lava rock formations. This includes jagged fragmentations, lava caves, and wrinkly pahoehoe formations. Wilderness trails are uneven and challenging, making them difficult even for hikers. The short paved sections near rest areas offer a smoother surface but are very brief.

What kind of scenery and natural features can I expect to see?

The landscape offers a unique, almost 'alien' beauty, dominated by vast, contorted lava formations. You'll see sagebrush and other resilient vegetation. In spring and early summer, wildflowers like Evening Primrose, Indian Paintbrush, and Prickly Pear Cactus add splashes of color. The area is also home to wildlife such as mule deer, antelope, rabbits, coyotes, foxes, and various birds of prey. Informational signs provide details about the geology and wildlife.

What is the best time of year to visit Hell's Half Acre?

Spring and early summer are particularly scenic due to wildflowers blooming amidst the lava landscape. However, given the challenging terrain for cycling, any visit should prioritize comfortable weather for exploration on foot if you wish to venture beyond the paved rest area loops. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the route?

The primary landmark is the extensive volcanic landscape itself, known as Hell's Half Acre, a portion of which is a National Natural Landmark. The route also passes through the Big River Management Area. While there are no specific cycling-friendly viewpoints identified for this particular route, the entire area offers unique geological formations.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route intersects with several named paths, including sections of Lego, Bottle, New London Turnpike, Toasters, Run In, DNA, Foster's Folly, Mini Maze?, Sweet Sawmill Road, Teeter Totter, Water Tank Trail, and upper spider.

Is the Hell's Half Acre loop dog-friendly?

While specific regulations for this exact cycling route are not detailed, generally, dogs are permitted in many parts of the Hell's Half Acre area, especially on wilderness trails. However, due to the extremely sharp and rugged lava rock, it is highly recommended to keep dogs on a leash and consider their paw safety, as the terrain can easily cause injury. Always check current local regulations for the Big River Management Area before your visit.

Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for the Big River Management Area?

For the Big River Management Area, there are typically no entrance fees required for general access. However, specific activities or facilities might require permits. It's always best to check the official Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) website for the most up-to-date information on any required permits or regulations before your visit.

Where can I park to access the Hell's Half Acre loop?

While specific parking for a 'Hell's Half Acre loop Davisville cycling' route isn't detailed, general access to the Hell's Half Acre area in Idaho often involves parking near the I-15 rest areas, which provide access to short paved loops. For the Big River Management Area in Rhode Island, various access points and parking lots are available. Consult local maps or the RIDEM website for designated parking areas.

What should I bring if I plan to explore the Hell's Half Acre area?

Given the rugged nature of the terrain, even for short walks, sturdy closed-toe shoes are essential. If venturing onto wilderness trails, be prepared for uneven ground and potential falls. Carry plenty of water, sun protection, and a map. For any cycling, be aware that the terrain is highly unsuitable for touring bicycles and could cause damage.

Are there any family-friendly cycling options near Hell's Half Acre loop?

The Hell's Half Acre area itself, with its rugged lava fields, is generally not suitable for family-friendly touring cycling. The very short paved loops near rest areas are easy but too brief for a cycling outing. For family-friendly cycling, it would be advisable to look for dedicated paved bike paths or rail trails in the broader Davisville area, which would offer a safer and more enjoyable experience than the challenging terrain of Hell's Half Acre.

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