Discover the rugged beauty of Shawkemo Hills on Nantucket with a scenic two-hour hike through glacial landscapes and stunning coastlines. Perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts!
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More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Wildlife
History
The hills played a role in Nantucket’s early maritime history, providing lookout points for ships approaching harbor.
Conservation
Efforts at Shawkemo Hills focus on preserving native habitats and controlling invasive species to protect local ecosystems.
Nantucket Walkabout
Discover the rugged beauty of Shawkemo Hills on Nantucket with a scenic two-hour hike through glacial landscapes and stunning coastlines. Perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts!
Nantucket Walkabout offers guided nature walks and hikes across Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. The business specializes in short, interpretive walks that highlight the island’s geology, ecology, and cultural history. Many tours run about two hours and include destinations such as Shawkemo Hills, Smooth Hummocks, Gardner Farm, Polpis Harbor, Sankaty Bluff, Coskata-Coatue, and Lost Farm Sanctuary. Guides share insights on glacial landforms, sandplain grassland ecology, salt marshes, and coastal views.
Tours emphasize wildlife and plant communities found on the island. Participants may see nesting ospreys, swans, short‑eared owls, and seasonal wildflowers. The Gardner Farm-Lost Farm Loop is a roughly 2.5-mile circuit that passes Hummock Pond and an active osprey nest. Sankaty Bluff offers an exposed cross-section of three glacial layers along the beach. Sunset options include Polpis Harbor Sunset, Shawkemo Hills Sunset, Smith’s Point Sunset, and Head of The Plains Sunset for evening coastal views.
The Linda Loring Nature Foundation walk is seasonal and when available is led by naturalist Peter Brace and occasionally botanist Dr. Sarah Bois. Many hikes are family-friendly and suitable for nature enthusiasts seeking accessible outdoor experiences near Cisco Beach and other landmark sites. Nantucket Walkabout focuses on small-group interpretation and outdoor education, offering factual natural history, local context, and photography-friendly routes that connect visitors with Nantucket’s distinctive landscapes. Booking information and seasonal schedules vary; specific trip dates depend on guide availability and conservation restrictions. Trips visit pitch pine forests, sandplain grasslands, beaches, and salt marshes for interpretive learning and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year.
Location
Nantucket, MA
Island-based guided hikes
Tours Offered
13
Guided hikes across Nantucket
Typical Length
2 hours
Many tours are two-hour hikes
Naturalist-Led
Peter Brace
Guided by naturalists including Peter Brace
Select a 2-hour nature walk or sunset hike to explore Nantucket’s geology, wildlife, and coastal views — check seasonal availability and trip details.
Wear sturdy footwear
Trail terrain can be uneven with rocky outcroppings, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.
Bring water and sun protection
Stay hydrated and shielded from the sun, especially during warmer months.
Start early or late
Visit during sunrise or late afternoon for softer light and cooler temperatures.
Plan for weather changes
Check the forecast and pack appropriate clothing, as coastal weather can shift quickly.
Hiking shoes
Provides stability and protection on uneven, rocky terrain.
all
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects from sun exposure during warmer months.
summer
Water bottle
Keeps you hydrated while exploring Nantucket's outdoor scenery.
all
Light rain jacket
Preparedness for sudden weather changes on coastal trails.
spring; fall; winter