Clear Creek Canyon | Richfield

Information

Landmark: Clear Creek Canyon
City: Richfield
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America

Clear Creek Canyon, Richfield, USA Utah, North America

Block Island is a 9.7 square mile island located 12 miles off the coast of mainland Rhode Island in New Shoreham, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The island's topography features rolling hills, coastal bluffs, and numerous ponds. The coastline is characterized by sandy beaches and dramatic clay cliffs, notably the Mohegan Bluffs. Vegetation includes coastal shrublands, grasslands, and mixed deciduous forests. The surrounding waters are Atlantic Ocean saltwater, typically exhibiting shades of blue and green depending on depth and conditions.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to Block Island is primarily via ferry. The Block Island Ferry operates from Point Judith, Rhode Island (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes travel time). Seasonal ferry services also run from Fall River, MA, and Newport, RI. Private boat docking is available at the Old Harbor and New Harbor marinas. There are no public bus lines on the island; transportation is typically by foot, bicycle rental, moped rental, or taxi services. Parking is available at ferry terminals on the mainland.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Block Island was formed by glacial activity approximately 10,000 years ago. It is part of the Atlantic Coastal Plain physiographic province. Historically, the island was inhabited by the Niantic people before European settlement. The first recorded European sighting was by Giovanni da Verrazzano in 1524, who named it "Adelantado." It was later charted by Adriaen Block in 1614, after whom it was named.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include hiking the island's extensive network of public rights-of-way and trails, exploring the Mohegan Bluffs, visiting the Southeast Lighthouse and North Lighthouse, swimming and sunbathing on beaches such as Crescent Beach and Mansion Beach, and birdwatching. Fishing and kayaking are also popular. Bike rentals are widely available for island exploration.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at public beaches, ferry terminals, and within the main village areas. Shade is provided by trees in forested areas and by structures in commercial zones. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available across the island, though it may be weaker in more remote areas. Food vendors and restaurants are concentrated in the villages of Old Harbor and New Harbor.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for weather are typically June through September, with July and August being the warmest. For photography of the Mohegan Bluffs, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination. High tide is generally preferred for beach access and swimming. Low tide can reveal more of the intertidal zone.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the island was once connected to the mainland by a land bridge, which was submerged by rising sea levels. A verified historical oddity is the island's designation as a National Natural Landmark due to its unique glacial geology and coastal ecosystems.