THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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!
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!
Book with Nantucket Walkabout
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Nantucket Walkabout · Nantucket, Massachusetts
Shawkemo Hills, located on the rugged coastline of Nantucket, offers an accessible yet awe-inspiring hiking experience perfect for adventurers and families. This area showcases the island's glacial past through striking geological formations, including undulating ridges and panoramic vistas of the Atlantic. The trail winds through diverse terrain, revealing rare flora and the chance to spot seabirds soaring overhead. The landscape, shaped by ancient glaciers, features unique rock outcroppings that tell the story of Nantucket’s natural history. Visiting here offers more than just scenic views; it’s an opportunity to connect with the island’s geological soul and enjoy a physically rewarding outing. The short two-hour hike makes it an ideal choice for travelers with limited time but a thirst for discovery. Local lore speaks of indigenous peoples and early Nantucket settlers who relied on these hills for resource gathering, adding depth to the adventure. Shawkemo Hills is a true gem, emphasizing the island’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty while providing an accessible trail for all. Whether you're craving a peaceful walk during sunrise or a family afternoon jaunt, this spot delivers consistently stunning scenery in a manageable package. As part of Nantucket’s outdoor offerings, it stands out for its geological significance and sweeping views, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers and history buffs alike.
Moderate.
6–8 hours.
Moderate fitness required; participants should be comfortable with outdoor activity.
Yes, the trails are family-friendly and manageable for kids with supervision.
While there isn't a formal visitor center, local maps and info are available at Nantucket tourism offices.
Dogs are welcome on a leash, but should be kept under control and cleaned up after.
This trail involves uneven terrain and may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
Spring through fall offer the most favorable weather, with fall providing stunning foliage.
Facilities are limited along the trail; plan accordingly.
The hills played a role in Nantucket’s early maritime history, providing lookout points for ships approaching harbor.
Efforts at Shawkemo Hills focus on preserving native habitats and controlling invasive species to protect local ecosystems.
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.
Book with Nantucket Walkabout