Hiking Fort Nature Refuge, Smithfield RI Approx. 3-4 Miles

*Before signing up for this event, please read and understand the entire Write-Up and the Liability Waiver below. By signing up for this event you and any guests that accompany you agree to the terms of the Liability Waiver.

Liability Waiver:
As a condition of your voluntary participation in this activity you acknowledge and agree to the following: this activity involves inherent risks that can cause property damage, injury, illness, disability, and/or death to participants and/or others; you assume all risk associated with this activity; you are responsible for having the necessary knowledge, skills, abilities, clothing, and equipment to safely participate in this activity; you know and will follow the Hiker Responsibility Code described at www.hikesafe.com; the leader(s) of this activity are volunteers; and you for yourself, your heirs, executors, and administrators release, hold harmless, and indemnify the leader(s) and all members of this group from any and all claims for property damage, injury, illness, disability, and/or death - including those caused by negligence and/or other reasons. Safety Firs
Hikers and birders alike will appreciate the Fort Wildlife Refuge for its diverse habitat in Northern Rhode Island. This 235-acre property includes miles of trails, some with elevation, that lead to three idyllic ponds. Teeming with a variety of animals as well as beautiful wetland plants, these ponds provide visitors with scenic destinations for wildlife observation and photography. In addition to hiking and bird watching, Fort Wildlife Refuge is a popular winter destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Trail length total is 3.5-4 miles, several combinations of loops.

Refuge Highlights •Habitat: forest, ponds, wetlands •Wildlife to watch for: beaver, otter, muskrat, fox, deer, frog, turtle •Birds commonly found: Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, Pine Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Ovenbird, Wild Turkey, Great Blue Heron, Scarlet Tanager, Wood Duck •Offerings: Birdwatching, Programs, Snowshoeing/cross-country skiing

IMPORTANT POINTS: -Hydrating well prior to hitting the trail and carrying additional water on the trail is a must. Bring water! No water, no hiking! -Wear clothing appropriate for the weather, keeping in mind that you will heat up quickly! No jeans! Synthetic wicking and ventilating materials throughout every layer are best for keeping you dry while sweating. Avoid cotton! Wet clothing can cause hypothermia even above freezing. -Wear appropriate footwear! Our trails are rough and loaded with toe-stubbing, ankle-twisting rocks and roots. Also be prepared for seasonal trail conditions. There are often plenty of wet, and muddy spots perhaps even some slippery spots on our trail. We will adjust our speed for safety in these areas. -Bring a snack, we will be stopping at the dam for a brief break. -
There will be muddy conditions. Wear boots at a minimum, poles would be useful. We will be negotiating waterlogged trails.
Bug Spray is now essential! Please bring it- the mosquitoes, gnats, and ticks are now active!