Ryan Park, once an abandoned dump, may be one of Rhode Island’s best-kept secrets. The 350-acre park includes athletic fields, boat-ramp access to Belleville Pond (no motors allowed), a playground, picnic tables, and about four miles of trails.

Ryan Park is great at any time of year, but autumn is our favorite season to visit. We prefer the loop that circles the smaller portion of Belleville Pond.

From RI-4 North, take a right turn at the second light onto Oak Hill Road. From RI-4 South, it is a left turn at the first light. Drive about 1 mile, and turn left into the second and main entrance of Ryan Park. Bear left and pass the basketball court on your right. When the road starts to curve right, take the gravel road directly in front of you to the first parking area on your right. Start your hike beyond the metal gate on the left.

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a trail at Ryan Park.