More Cliff Walks in New England
Parsons Way Trail in Kennebunkport, Maine
This two-mile jaunt takes you past some of the cooler-named sights on the Maine coast: Spouting Rock and Blowing Cave. Ocean views are complemented by the sight of some truly magnificent homes. Benches; free; paved and grassy path; beachfront roses. And you can climb down on the rocks. Park at Colony Beach or along Ocean Avenue. 207-967-0858; visitthekennebunks.com
Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island
New England’s oldest National Recreation Trail is an exquisite 3.5-mile stretch of ocean views that skirts behind some of Newport’s grandest mansions. Begins at the western end of Easton’s Beach (a.k.a. First Beach). 401-845-5300; cliffwalk.com
Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine
Since its inception in 1925, this leisurely (and now paved) 1.25-mile stroll has brought walkers up close to the rugged Maine coast. Soak in the views by taking a seat on any of the 30 memorial benches along the way. Begins at Perkins Cove or on Shore Road in downtown Ogunquit. 207-646-2939; ogunquit.org/aboutOgunquit.php
‘Sconset Bluff Walk in Siasconset, Nantucket, Massachusetts
High-bluffs views of the Atlantic and seaside mansions are the highlights of this unadvertised public way that cuts through the properties of some of the island’s most jaw-dropping homes. Begins at the north end of Front Street. 508-228-3643; nantucketchamber.org
Clay Head Trail on Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island’s pristine beauty comes into full bloom on this 1.5-mile walk along high bluffs. Migratory birds, seal sightings, and blooming shadbush will have you coming back for seconds. Begins off the north end of Corn Neck Road, about 2 miles from town. 401-466-2129; natureconservancy.org/blockisland
Giant’s Stairs in Harpswell, Maine
Good things come in small packages, and this relatively short (quarter-mile) hike offers quite the reward: unrivaled views of eastern Casco Bay and the open Atlantic, Maine’s signature rocky coastline, and the stars of the trail, ancient volcanic lava formations that look like large steps. Parking is on the north side of Washington Street on Bailey Island. 207-721-1121; harpswelllandtrust.org/conserved/GiantsStairs.shtml
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