List of highest points in Rhode Island by county facts for kids

Rhode Island might be the smallest state in the United States, but it still has some interesting high points! These aren't huge mountains like you'd find out west, but they are the highest spots in each of Rhode Island's five counties. Knowing these points helps us understand the state's geography.

When we talk about how high a place is, we use something called elevation. This is how far a spot is above sea level. To make sure everyone measures the same way, scientists use a special system called the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD88). Think of it like a standard ruler for measuring height across North America!

How We Measure Height

Scientists and mapmakers use special tools to figure out the exact height of places. Some of the most accurate measurements come from the National Geodetic Survey (NGS). They use advanced technology to get very precise numbers.

For other spots, especially if they are not directly measured by NGS, mapmakers use topographic maps. These maps show the shape of the land using contour lines. Imagine drawing lines on a hill at the same height, like layers on a cake. Where these lines are close together, the land is steep. Where they are far apart, it's flatter. Sometimes, if a spot isn't exactly on a contour line, its height is estimated to be between two lines. This is why you might see a plus sign (+) next to some heights, meaning the actual height is a bit more than the number shown.

Rhode Island's County High Points

Here's a list of the highest points in each of Rhode Island's counties, from the lowest high point to the highest!