Conquer the Cliff Walk: Newport’s Iconic Trail with Million-Dollar Views

If there’s one walk in Newport that perfectly captures its soul, it’s the legendary Cliff Walk. This isn’t your average seaside stroll. Imagine this: on one side, the raw, breathtaking power of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against rugged cliffs, and on the other, the almost unbelievable opulence of Gilded Age mansions, their manicured lawns rolling right down to the path. It’s a place where natural beauty and human ambition collide in the most spectacular way. For anyone visiting Newport, the Cliff Walk isn’t just recommended; it’s practically mandatory.  

A Storied Path: History and National Significance

The Cliff Walk stretches for an impressive 3.5 miles along Newport’s eastern shore, running from Memorial Boulevard at Easton’s Beach to the area of Bailey’s Beach (also called Rejects Beach at its public access point). Its origins are thought to trace back to pathways used by Native Americans for fishing and seaweed gathering before colonial settlement. As Newport blossomed into a premier resort town in the 19th century, and wealthy families like the Vanderbilts and Astors built their “summer cottages,” the path was further formalized, in part due to their influence.  

What makes the Cliff Walk truly special is its designation in 1975 as a National Recreation Trail, the 65th in the nation and the very first in New England. It’s unique because it’s a National Recreation Trail located within a National Historic District, a testament to its dual importance. This public right-of-way has been fiercely protected over the years, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these unparalleled views. The Friends of the Waterfront organization has historically played a role in advocating for public access and has lobbied for public shoreline access, including Cliff Walk rights-of-way.

Navigating the Trail: Length, Access Points, & Getting There

The full 3.5-mile journey can take about 2.5 to 3 hours of steady walking, but if you stop for photos, admire the mansions, or just soak in the views (which you absolutely should!), plan for a longer excursion, perhaps even a significant portion of your day.  

Main Access Points & Parking:

• Northern Entry (Easton’s Beach/Memorial Boulevard): This is a popular starting point.
  • Parking: Metered parking is available on Memorial Boulevard at Easton’s Beach. Rates are typically $2 per hour, with meters in effect May 1 – October 31 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and a 3-hour limit from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.. The Easton’s Beach lot itself has daily rates: Weekdays $25/car, Weekends/Holidays $35/car. This lot is convenient as it’s near the start of the walk and Bellevue Avenue.  

• Narragansett Avenue (Forty Steps): A very popular mid-trail access point.
  • Parking: Metered on-street parking at $2 per hour, with a 4-hour limit (6 a.m. – 9 p.m.). Meters are active May 1 – October 31, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. No parking 9 p.m. – 6 a.m. east of Ochre Point Ave./Annandale Rd.. This is a favorite spot for those wanting to do a shorter segment.  
• Southern Terminus (Bailey’s Beach/Rejects Beach area – near Ledge Road/Bellevue Avenue): Accessing the southern end can be trickier for parking. Rejects Beach itself has no dedicated parking and is best accessed on foot or by bike from the Cliff Walk or Bellevue Avenue.  
• Other Access Points: The official Cliff Walk map (often available online or at trailheads) shows various smaller access points along streets like Webster St., Shepard Ave., Ruggles Ave., Marine Ave., Ledge Rd., and Ochre Point Ave., allowing for shorter walks. Some of these may have limited street parking (e.g., a few free spots near Salve Regina/Ochre Court ).  

Getting There by Public Transport: RIPTA (Rhode Island Public Transit Authority) buses serve Newport. Route 68 (CCRI Newport/Memorial Blvd./First Beach) provides service to Easton’s Beach. Route 67 (Bellevue/Salve Regina Univ.) serves the Cliff Walk, Belmont, and Bailey’s Beaches area, with frequent departures from the Newport Transportation Center. Using the trolley or bus is a great way to do a one-way walk and then return to your starting point or vehicle. Both routes are fare-free only May 23 – Oct 31, 2025; regular fare the rest of the year.

The Walk Itself: A Section-by-Section Adventure

The Cliff Walk’s character changes significantly along its length, offering varied experiences. About two-thirds of the walk is considered easy, while other parts are more rugged. In 2015, sixteen QR code trail markers were installed at significant locations, providing information on mansions and geological features via smartphone.  

• Section 1: Easton’s Beach (Memorial Blvd) to Narragansett Avenue (Forty Steps)
  • Length: About 0.7 miles.  
  • Terrain: This is the easiest and most accessible part, mostly wide and paved, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.  
  • Highlights: The walk starts uphill from Easton’s Beach. You’ll pass The Chanler at Cliff Walk, a historic mansion-turned-hotel. This section ends at the famous Forty Steps, a granite staircase leading down to the water, originally built in the 1830s by David Priestly Hall for his children. Public restrooms are seasonally available at Narragansett Avenue.  
  • Mansions Glimpsed: The Chanler. Some private homes like 1 ½ Cliff Terrace and 20 Seaview Avenue.  
• Section 2: Narragansett Avenue (Forty Steps) to The Breakers (Ruggles Avenue)
  • Length: Just under a mile.  
  • Terrain: Continues to be relatively easy and paved for a good portion. This is often considered the “sweet spot” for mansion views.  
  • Highlights: This stretch offers some of the best views of the Gilded Age mansions. You’ll pass Ochre Court (Salve Regina University, second largest mansion in Newport, designed by Richard Morris Hunt) , the Vinland Estate (also Salve Regina, built for tobacco heiress Catherine Lorillard Wolfe) , and culminates with the magnificent The Breakers (Cornelius Vanderbilt II’s grandest “summer cottage”).  
  • Mansions Visible: Ochre Court, Vinland Estate, The Breakers.
• Section 3: The Breakers (Ruggles Ave.) to Marine Avenue/Rosecliff
  • Terrain: The path starts to become a bit more varied here, with some unpaved sections and a mix of paved areas.
  • Highlights: You’ll pass Anglesea (a Victorian cottage designed by Detlef Lienau) and approach Rosecliff, modeled after the Grand Trianon at Versailles for silver heiress Theresa Fair Oelrichs. This area offers stunning ocean vistas.  
  • Mansions Visible: Anglesea, Rosecliff.
• Section 4: Marine Avenue to Ledge Road (Southern, more rugged section)
  • Terrain: This is where the Cliff Walk shows its wilder side. The path becomes unpaved, rocky, uneven, and can be hazardous, especially after rain. Good, sturdy shoes are essential. This section involves climbing over rocks and navigating through tunnels. It’s more of a hike than a stroll.  
  • Highlights: While mansion views become more limited as the path often sits below them, the ocean views are spectacular. You’ll pass Beechwood (former Astor estate) , Marble House (William K. Vanderbilt’s “temple to the arts,” with its iconic Chinese Tea House perched on the cliffs) , and Rough Point (Doris Duke’s former estate, now a museum).  
  • Mansions Visible: Beechwood, Marble House (and Chinese Tea House), Rough Point.

• Section 5: Ledge Road to Bailey’s Beach (Rejects Beach)
  • Terrain: This is the most challenging part of the walk, with very rugged and rocky terrain.  
  • Highlights: You’ll pass Land’s End (built for Samuel G. Ward) and The Waves (architect John Russell Pope’s own house). The walk concludes near the private Spouting Rock Beach Association, with public access to a sliver known as Rejects Beach.  
  • Mansions Visible: Land’s End, The Waves.

Current Trail Status (2025): Partial Closure It’s crucial for visitors to know that a 450-foot section of the Cliff Walk between Narragansett Avenue and Webster Street (near Forty Steps and The Overlook/Trail Marker #4) is currently CLOSED due to structural damage from a storm in December 2022.  

• Detour: A clearly marked inland detour is in place. This means you won’t be able to walk the direct coastal path in this specific segment.  
• Impact: This closure affects a popular and relatively easy part of the walk. While the rest of the 3.5-mile trail remains open, this detour is an important factor in planning your walk.
• Always check the City of Newport’s official Cliff Walk page for the very latest updates before you go.  

Essential Tips for a Memorable Walk

• What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. For the southern, rockier sections, sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended. Dress in layers, as coastal weather can change quickly.  
• What to Bring: Plenty of water and some snacks, as there are no vendors on the trail itself. Don’t forget your camera for those million-dollar views! Sunscreen is also a good idea. A map can be helpful, though the QR code markers also provide information.  
• Safety First:
  • The terrain varies greatly. The southern half is rugged with unfenced cliff edges and drops of over 70 feet in some places – exercise extreme caution.  
  • Rocks can be very slippery, especially after rain or if covered in sea spray.  
  • It’s generally advised not to bring small children to the more challenging southern sections.  
  • Prohibited activities include bicycling, skateboarding, picnicking directly on the main path in hazardous areas, and diving from the cliffs.  
• Best Times to Walk: Early morning or late afternoon usually means fewer crowds and softer light for photos. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures.
• Dog Policy: Yes, the Cliff Walk is dog-friendly! Keep your furry friends leashed and be sure to clean up after them.
• Accessibility: The northern, paved sections (especially from Easton’s Beach to near The Breakers) are generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. However, the southern half, with its rocky terrain, steps, and tunnels, is not wheelchair accessible.  

Beyond the Walk: Nearby Attractions

Once you’ve conquered the Cliff Walk (or a section of it), there’s more to explore nearby:

• Tour the Mansions: Several of the mansions you’ve admired from the path, like The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff, are open for tours. Book tickets through The Preservation Society of Newport County.
• Easton’s Beach (First Beach): Relax on the sand, take a dip, or try renting a surf board.
• Bellevue Avenue: Stroll or drive along this grand avenue for more street-side views of the mansions and some upscale shopping.

An Unforgettable Newport Landmark

The Cliff Walk is more than just a trail; it’s an experience that encapsulates Newport’s unique charm. The juxtaposition of wild, natural beauty with stunning architectural achievements is something you won’t find just anywhere. Whether you walk a small, paved portion or tackle the entire rugged length, the views and the history will stay with you long after you’ve left. Remember to respect the trail, be prepared for its varied conditions, and check for any current advisories before you set out.