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Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge
4.8 ★★★★★ 85 Google reviews · Running trail in Coventry, Rhode Island · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Natural area with easy trails, a loop and a pond, plus views of the surrounding area.
What runners say about Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge
“Beautiful trails and lots of different bird species.”
“The trails here are very well marked.”
Beautiful trails and lots of different bird species...even during winter! Trail maps available on site and beaver sightings. We love it here!!
The trails here are very well marked. In a very quiet area. Paper maps of the trails were available at the starting point. This being a wildlife sanctuary, dogs are not allowed on the trails. There is also no picnic area or facilities on site.
Terrific hiking area. First time there. Followed yellow trail to deep fast running Brook with no way to cross over and had to turn back. 2 1/2 hours round trip. Perfect weather. No wildlife. Pond visible at one end. High hill.
Great place to hike. You can go as little as 1.8 MI or up to approx. 5 MI. Previous reports of a lot of flooding near the pond (caused by beaver activity) are being managed ably by caretaker and are now passable.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful trails and lots of different bird species.”
“Wish there was more spots to access the water at Carr pond but other than that a fun loop trail.”
“be careful esp on Hammitt Hill for lots of smaller tree roots.”
“This being a wildlife sanctuary, dogs are not allowed on the trails.”
“be careful esp on Hammitt Hill for lots of smaller tree roots.”
Plan your run at Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websiteasri.org
- Phone+1 401-949-5454
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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