Take A Walk On the Wild Side at the Cliff Walk
Get the most from Newport's Cliff Walk with our quick guide—featuring Forty Steps, top sights, and important safety tips for your walk.
One of the most overlooked aspects of traveling is the moments when you encounter experiences that leave a profound impact, no matter how many times you visit that same attraction. Since my college days in the early to mid-2000s, I have traveled to Newport several times. I vividly recall a weekend trip to Newport with my college friends escaping an unusually heavy blizzard around Halloween in 2011, where the snow and ice kept “chasing” us as we rode along Interstate 95, only to land in Newport where it was raining. I also remember those hot summer weekends and chilly fall days. During all my visits, I always made it a point to walk along this beautiful walkway that hugs Newport’s coastline. Although I have never completed the entire length, I have walked about half of it, and it never fails to amaze me with its breathtaking scenery and stunning views. Every time I go to Newport, Rhode Island, I make it a priority to walk the Cliff Walk, and I believe you should too.
What is the Cliff Walk?
The Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island, is a breathtaking coastal pathway that rides situated alongside the Atlantic Ocean on one side, and the opulent mansions that grace the shoreline on the other side. Spanning approximately 3.5 miles, this scenic trail winds along the rugged cliffs, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and architectural prowess. As you walk, jog or bike your way on this picturesque trail, you will encounter a visual feast of diverse landscapes, from rocky outcrops to lush greenery, and your ears will enjoy the soothing sounds of waves crashing against the rocks below. Bottle that up as “white noise” for bedtime!
The entire Cliff Walk is almost always open to the public, but there have been legal challenges before. VisitNewportRI explains that not all of the land owners appreciate all of this public access:
The Cliff Walk has been the subject of several legal battles concerning public access and property rights. Over the years, there have been efforts by some property owners to restrict access to the Cliff Walk or to develop portions of the land. However, legal precedents and public advocacy have largely maintained the Cliff Walk as a public resource. Maintenance and preservation efforts are ongoing, with various organizations involved in keeping the walkway safe and accessible.
The walk also provides access to several historic landmarks, including the famous Breakers mansion, which once served as the summer retreat for the illustrious Vanderbilt family. As you continue your journey, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area; seabirds often soar overhead, and if you’re fortunate, you might even spot a seal basking on the rocks, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the walk.
Gimme Forty Steps
