Neutaconkanut Hill Park

Natural Features

Neutaconkanut Hill Park covers 88 acres, with Neutaconkanut Hill serving as its centerpiece and the highest point in Providence at 296 feet above sea level. The park features a diverse landscape, including woodlands, hiking trails, sports fields, and a recreation center.

The lower elevations of the park are dedicated to organized recreational activities, while the upper areas offer a more natural, forested environment. The park's flora includes a variety of trees such as oak, hickory, beech, butternut, and black walnut.

Trails and Activities

Hiking is a primary activity in Neutaconkanut Hill Park, with approximately 3.8 miles of trails available. These trails, originally developed in the 1930s and later reconstructed by the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy, vary in difficulty and terrain.

Some trails, particularly the Pond Trail, can be steep, while others offer more gradual paths through the forest. In winter, some slopes are used for sledding, and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are possible in heavy snow conditions.

Wildlife and Seasonal Highlights

In spring and summer, visitors can enjoy wildflowers like daisies, geraniums, poppies, brown-eyed Susans, and violets. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including deer, rabbits, raccoons, turkeys, pheasants, and over 148 species of birds.

Neutaconkanut Hill Park offers spectacular views of Providence and surrounding areas from various vantage points, particularly from the meadow at the summit.

Historical Significance

The park has a rich history, with remnants of its past scattered throughout. These include the remains of building foundations, a fieldstone-lined well, and a small graveyard from the 1800s.

The park was once highly landscaped but fell into disrepair in the 1970s before being revitalized in recent years. Today, Neutaconkanut Hill Park is managed through a partnership between the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy and the Providence Parks and Recreation Department, ensuring its continued preservation and accessibility for public enjoyment.