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Providence County

Les Pawson Trail loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Providence County

Les Pawson Trail loop

Easy

5.0

(2)

hikers

Les Pawson Trail loop

Q: Where can I park to access the Les Pawson Trail loop?

The Les Pawson Trail loop is located within Lincoln Woods State Park. There are multiple parking areas available throughout the park that provide access to the trail. Look for designated parking lots within the park.

Q: Are there any entrance fees or permits required for Lincoln Woods State Park?

Typically, there are no entrance fees for Lincoln Woods State Park itself. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Rhode Island State Parks website for any current regulations or seasonal parking fees, especially for non-residents.

Q: Is the Les Pawson Trail loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors and wildlife.

Q: When is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The Les Pawson Trail loop is beautiful in all four seasons due to its paved surface and shady woods. It's usable year-round, even after snowfall. For pleasant weather and vibrant scenery, spring, summer, and fall are excellent choices.

Q: How challenging is the Les Pawson Trail loop?

This trail is consistently rated as easy and is suitable for all skill levels and fitness levels. While mostly flat, there are some slight grades that might offer a minor challenge for those with strollers or wheelchairs.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?

The trail is predominantly paved with asphalt, making it a smooth surface. It's approximately eight feet wide. While largely flat, you'll encounter some slight inclines. If you find yourself on dirt or natural surfaces, you've likely veered off the main paved loop.

Q: What natural features and sights will I see along the route?

You'll enjoy a picturesque journey through shady woods, with views of Olney Pond (also known as Quinsnicket Pond) and unique rock formations. Keep an eye out for wildlife like sunning turtles and deer. Benches are placed along the path for resting and enjoying the scenery.

Q: How long does it typically take to complete the loop?

Most sources suggest it takes about an hour to complete the entire loop, which is approximately 2.9 to 3 miles (4.13 to 5.61 km) long.

Q: Is the trail accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?

Yes, its paved surface and generally flat profile make it highly accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The slight grades might require a bit more effort in some sections, but it's widely considered suitable for these uses.

Q: Does the trail connect with other paths in Lincoln Woods State Park?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of other trails within the park, including the Far Side of the Pond, Warm Up Trail, and Dark Side of the Pond. This offers opportunities to explore further if you wish.

01:04

4.11km

20m

Hiking

The Les Pawson Trail loop offers an easy hike through shady woods, often described as a fairy tale-like setting. You'll enjoy views of Olney Pond and discover unique rock formations along the way. This pleasant route covers 2.6 miles (4.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 81 feet (25…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Lincoln Woods State Park

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

298 m

Olney Pond

Highlight • Lake

From here you have a wide view over the lake.

Tip by

1.17 km

Les Pawson Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Les Pawson trail is a pleasant 3-mile trail around Olney Pond in Lincoln Woods State Park. The trail offers lovely lake views and diverse nature outside the city.

Tip by

4.11 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.47 km

292 m

240 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.65 km

240 m

114 m

< 100 m

Elevation

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

Weather

Today

Wednesday 8 July

28°C

15°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Les Pawson Trail loop?

The Les Pawson Trail loop is located within Lincoln Woods State Park. There are multiple parking areas available throughout the park that provide access to the trail. Look for designated parking lots within the park.

Are there any entrance fees or permits required for Lincoln Woods State Park?

Typically, there are no entrance fees for Lincoln Woods State Park itself. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Rhode Island State Parks website for any current regulations or seasonal parking fees, especially for non-residents.

Is the Les Pawson Trail loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors and wildlife.

When is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The Les Pawson Trail loop is beautiful in all four seasons due to its paved surface and shady woods. It's usable year-round, even after snowfall. For pleasant weather and vibrant scenery, spring, summer, and fall are excellent choices.

How challenging is the Les Pawson Trail loop?

This trail is consistently rated as easy and is suitable for all skill levels and fitness levels. While mostly flat, there are some slight grades that might offer a minor challenge for those with strollers or wheelchairs.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?

The trail is predominantly paved with asphalt, making it a smooth surface. It's approximately eight feet wide. While largely flat, you'll encounter some slight inclines. If you find yourself on dirt or natural surfaces, you've likely veered off the main paved loop.

What natural features and sights will I see along the route?

You'll enjoy a picturesque journey through shady woods, with views of Olney Pond (also known as Quinsnicket Pond) and unique rock formations. Keep an eye out for wildlife like sunning turtles and deer. Benches are placed along the path for resting and enjoying the scenery.

How long does it typically take to complete the loop?

Most sources suggest it takes about an hour to complete the entire loop, which is approximately 2.9 to 3 miles (4.13 to 5.61 km) long.

Is the trail accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?

Yes, its paved surface and generally flat profile make it highly accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The slight grades might require a bit more effort in some sections, but it's widely considered suitable for these uses.

Does the trail connect with other paths in Lincoln Woods State Park?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of other trails within the park, including the Far Side of the Pond, Warm Up Trail, and Dark Side of the Pond. This offers opportunities to explore further if you wish.

Are there any specific considerations for navigating the trail?

While primarily a peaceful experience, be aware that cars do pass by on certain sections of the trail. It's always best to stay on the main paved path to ensure you're on the intended route and for safety.