Sunset Walks at Head of The Plains with Nantucket Walkabout
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires comfort with 1-2 miles of walking over natural terrain.
Overview
Witness Nantucket’s unique sandplain grassland as dusk colors the landscape and night herons call. Nantucket Walkabout’s Head of The Plains Sunset walk reveals magical coastal wildlife and dark skies in a protected island habitat.
Adventure Tips
Bring insect repellent
Evenings can bring out mosquitoes and ticks in this grassland environment. Bug spray helps ensure comfort throughout the walk.
Wear sturdy walking shoes
The terrain is mostly flat but covered in sandy soil and grasses, which can be uneven underfoot.
Prepare for changing temperatures
Sunsets on Nantucket can cool rapidly, so bring a lightweight jacket or layers to stay warm after dusk.
Use a headlamp or flashlight
As darkness settles, lighting helps with safe footing and returning after the stars emerge.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black-crowned night heron
- White-tailed deer
History
Head of The Plains occupies land shaped 21,000 years ago by the Laurentide ice sheet, creating one of the Northern Hemisphere’s rare sandplain grasslands.
Conservation
This area is jointly protected to preserve its globally rare coastal heathland and sandplain ecosystem, emphasizing sustainable access and habitat integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Walking shoes or boots
Supportive footwear ensures steady footing on sandy and uneven paths.
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitos and ticks common during warmer months.
spring|summer|fall specific
Layered clothing
Adjustable layers accommodate changing temperatures at dusk and after sunset.
all specific
Headlamp or flashlight
Provides light for navigating safely once darkness falls.
all specific