Day Trips from Providence
← All Providence day tripsDay Trips from Providence: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Providence, RI. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
8 waterfalls near Providence
Tannery Falls
Savoy, MA 01256
Just 2 hrs 31 min from Providence, rated 4.8 stars by 140 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wahconah Falls State Park
Dalton, MA 01226
Just 2 hrs 25 min from Providence, rated 4.7 stars by 471 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Kent Falls State Park
Kent, CT 06757
Just 2 hrs 46 min from Providence, rated 4.7 stars by 2,136 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Blackstone Gorge
Blackstone, MA 01504
Just 25 min from Providence, rated 4.7 stars by 965 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Enders State Forest
CT 06035, USA
Just 1 hr 57 min from Providence, rated 4.7 stars by 823 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bash Bish Falls State Park
Mt Washington, MA 01258
Just 2 hrs 35 min from Providence, rated 4.6 stars by 1,070 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Chesterfield Gorge State Wayside (park and ride)
Spofford, NH 03462
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Providence, rated 4.6 stars by 112 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wadsworth Falls State Park
Middletown, CT 06457
Just 1 hr 36 min from Providence, rated 4.5 stars by 2,301 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Providence
What are the best waterfalls near Providence, RI?
The best waterfalls near Providence range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Providence?
Some waterfalls near Providence have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Providence?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Providence are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Providence?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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