Newport Cliff Walk
34 Ocean Ave, Newport, RI 02840
Free
A Gilded Age Coastal Adventure
This 3.5-mile National Recreation Trail is Rhode Island’s most popular attraction, offering a unique public right-of-way through the backyards of America’s most famous mansions.
Designated as the first National Recreation Trail in New England, the Cliff Walk is a spectacular juxtaposition of natural geology and architectural excess. Whether you’re a photographer, a history buff, or just looking for a free thing to do in Newport, this trail delivers 360-degree views of Easton Bay and the legendary “summer cottages.”
As you walk, you’ll pass the seaside facades of some of the most famous Newport Mansions:
- The Breakers: The Vanderbilt family’s 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo.
- Marble House: A stunning white temple inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles.
- Rosecliff: The iconic location for films like The Great Gatsby.
- Rough Point: The former estate of heiress Doris Duke, located at one of the walk’s more rugged points.
Located at the end of Narragansett Avenue, the Forty Steps plunge 40 feet down the cliffside to a stone balcony just above the waves. Historically, this was a social gathering spot for the servants of the nearby mansions to escape their duties and enjoy the sea air. Today, it’s the best spot for an iconic “ocean splash” photo.
Pro-Tips for Your Hike
- Watch Your Footing: The northern part (Memorial Blvd to Ruggles Ave) is paved and easy. However, the southern end (near Ledge Road) becomes a rugged rock scramble. If you have kids or strollers, stick to the northern paved sections.
- Avoid the “Poison Ivy”: The walk is famous for its natural beauty, but also for its poison ivy. Stay on the designated path!
- Golden Hour: For the most breathtaking views of the Atlantic, start your walk 90 minutes before sunset. The light hitting the limestone mansions is a photographer’s dream.
- Stay Hydrated: There are no restrooms or water fountains along the actual path (restrooms are only at the trailheads). Bring a reusable water bottle.
Is the Newport Cliff Walk Worth it?
The Newport Cliff Walk is one of the most beautiful coastal experiences in the United States. It offers a rare, unobstructed look at American history and the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean — all for the price of zero dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. Be mindful of the narrow paths and steep drops, especially on the southern end.
The walk is 3.5 miles one-way. Most visitors take the RIPTA Route 67 Bus (the Newport Trolley), which runs frequently between Bellevue Avenue and the Visitor Center/Easton’s Beach.
The walk is safe as long as you stay on the path. Be aware that parts of the trail have collapsed in recent years due to coastal erosion (check local 2026 advisories for detours). Proper footwear — not flip-flops — is highly recommended for the rocky sections.
Take a Self-Guided Audio Tour of the Cliff Walk
Enhance your self-guided stroll along the beautiful 3.5-mile trail by lending your ears to a narrated audio tour.