Influencer: Meet Meredith Ewenson, RI Outdoor Content Creator

What inspired you to start making content about nature, hiking, and mindfulness?

I’ve been a yoga teacher for 10 years, and mindfulness in my everyday life has become the most impactful element of my practice. I’ve always loved wildlife and nature, but it was a handful of years ago when I started taking walking meditations in nature, that I really felt a deep sense of connection and meaning by blending the two of these together. I started intentionally exploring more hikes and outdoor spaces, and then sharing those experiences and lessons that I thought would benefit others. This led me to create things like my Rhode Island Hiking Collective group and my international group hiking trips – both aimed at bringing like-minded people together outdoors in an intentional, immersive environment.

You’ve had adventures in Machu Picchu and soon Patagonia. What do you find special about hiking in Rhode Island?

My favorite part is the abundance of hikes with ocean and water views; you just don’t get that in many other places. I think Rhode Island is pretty under the radar when it comes to hiking, so it’s pretty easy to enjoy trails without crowds. For the most part, trails are clean and free of litter, which I know can be a problem in other places.

What are some of your favorite Ocean State hikes?

Cliff Walk in Newport, Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown, Beavertail Loop Trail in Jamestown, Rodman’s Hollow and Clay Head Trails in Block Island, Goddard Memorial State Park Trails in Warwick, Claire D. Mcintosh Wildlife Refuge Trail in Bristol, Touisset Marsh Wildlife Refuge Trail in Warren, and so many more!

When not traversing trails, what are your go-to places to eat, shop, play?

I love Nitro Bar for a hot matcha or chai latte, Tallulah’s Tacos (especially the seasonal location in Jamestown), Bar ‘Cino and La Vecina in Newport for dinner, Wag Nation for healthy dog treats for Winnie, and newportFILM for documentaries.

What does a perfect day look like for you?

My favorite way to start the day is grounded in stillness and quiet in nature. I love to go to watch the sunrise at Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge in Middletown. I look for wildlife, sometimes take photos, and generally just soak in the moment. As a pretty extreme morning person, my favorite part of the day is generally before most people are awake. Learn more on Instagram @MeredithEwenson