Beautiful Block: A Hopeful Hike

This AM, my roommate Hope and I jumped out of bed and ran for the hills. We decided we needed an adventure, and with Hope working at noon, we had to get an early start. We both had been itching to explore Rodman’s Hallow which lies in the southwest corner of the island. The glaciers that craved out the island a few years ago left the gapping hallow for us adventurous gals to go explore.

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But we before anything was being explored we needed to fuel the machines. Luca’s Market was selected for topping off our tanks. Located on Ocean Avenue between Old and New Harbor, the new(ish) market was a great spot to stop. The market sells crafted grommet groceries, the kind of place you would love to buy everything and could even consider giving any of their items as a gift and it would totally be fine (that doesn’t run true with most grocery stores). For our breakfast purpose we began our morning explorations with the bakery and deli the spot boast. IMG_3631

Hope and I hit up the “Day Old” basket for goodies, mine included a Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip cookies (for post hike reward). My blueberry scone was exactly what a scone should be and their coffee was darkly roasted and just the way I like it. We even met “Luca” himself, turns out he is a small child, not a cute little old man on a tractor.

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Back on our bikes we headed to the Hallow. Hills and silly lost tourist may have slowed us down, but it was still early enough when we arrived to hear birds chirping in their excitement of our arrival.

IMG_3659There are number of criss crossing trails in the Hallow. From the parking lot all of them will lead you out to the ocean. If you get too lost at a fork in road, channel your inner Robert Frost and you will know exactly which way to head.

IMG_3641When we reached the water, we found steep slopes down, but supporting ropes to assist in the decent. Down on the beach the water washes up with great views to the south of Long Island.IMG_3643

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Hope and I got all reflective on our hike (must have something to do with the pretty views). We reflected on both of our lives, where we are headed, what we are nervous about and the excitement we have for the road along the way. Thinking in the near future, Hope would like to join the Peace Corps and I would like to continue to embellish my college life with whatever additional means I can. Multiple personalities is not typical ones goal, but I like the life style of multidimensional living. Here on Block I am a hotel front desk worker, a freelance journalist, a bouncer at Martini night, a tri-athlete in training and a travel blogger. Not too shabby.

Wading pools created by the ties for children means looking for creatures, sadly for a 20 year old, it means attempting to get artsy for Instagram likes. I digress, but still participate nonetheless.

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The Hallow provides a great short hike for those looking to give their butts a rest from their beach chairs on the island. With our bike ride home taking us the southern loop, Hope and I covered a good portion of the island before rest of the town was finished with their morning cup of joe. Be prepared to feel better about life in general post hike.

What’s the best adventure you’ve ever been on before noon? Do you have a favorite morning baked good? What’s your “triple threat”? Why am I not #instafamous yet? Comment below

Beautiful Block: Settler’s Rock

Today marks one week since arriving on Block. It has been quite the busy one. But when I had to answer the question of “How am I liking it so far?” that was posed to me, I would have to say I love it. The island has a lot to offer and I want to take it up on that. The Master Key I made should keep me pretty busy in my down time from work, and today was no exception.

I biked out to Settler’s rock, which is the northern most point on the island. It is a fairly flat ride about 4 miles each way. Once I got out there I took a stroll up to the Northern Light, just beyond.

First, a little bit of history on the rock. Based on the rock’s bio that it boasts on it’s own, the town of New Shoreham (Block Island to the rest of the world) was founded in 1661. They dropped this rock here in 1911 to #throwback in honor of the first settlers and purchasers. Mostly likely a bunch of Quakers trying not to be killed up at Plymouth Plantation (further evidence for Block’s superiority to the Cape).

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Today the rock serves a great biking destination for tourist and wannabe locals (myself included). A right onto Corn Neck road puts bikers right on a straight path to reach the rock. Along they way they can take in the views of beautiful beaches, nature and houses they will never own.

Two friends I bumped into at the lighthouse joined my adventure. Did I mention that the tininess of the island is great and I love knowing people anywhere I go? On the way back to Old Harbor we took note of the hiking trails along the way. I will be returning up this end of the Block for those very, very soon.

This car was parked up at the rock, and it is now in the running for coolest car on the Island.

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View of the North Light from Settler’s Rock.IMG_3394.JPG (1) I found it interesting that the light house grounds serve as a hatch spot for seagulls. With so many people coming in and out of the area, these Mamas have to play a lot of defense. IMG_3401.JPG

The spot has a great view of Rhode Island and also the Western half of the island. It is a popular spot so don’t expect privacy if you visit. But the rock, lighthouse and view is a worthy reason to rent a bike and pedal up the Block. On your way you will get to see more of what the island has to offer as well. 8/10

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