Wildlife & Nature Adventure at Smooth Hummocks on Nantucket
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Everyone in average health can enjoy this walk, no special fitness needed.
Overview
Discover the unique coastal habitat of Smooth Hummocks on Nantucket. This two-hour walk offers a chance to see wildflowers, seabirds, and the rare short-eared owl in their natural environment.
Smooth Hummocks
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Explore the unique Smooth Hummocks, a rare sandplain grassland ecosystem on Nantucket. This two-hour hike reveals stunning wildflowers and vital habitats for wildlife, including the short-eared owl. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, it offers a chance to learn about ecology while enjoying the breathtaking coastal landscape. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure!
Smooth Hummocks
Rates
Adults - $ 65.00 Children - $30.00
We do accept accept cash or check payment. Please call 508-422-7466 or email us at peter@nantucketwalkabout.com if you cannot pay online with a credit card.
Duration
2 Hours
About
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Graded relatively flat by glacial meltwater running out over the coastal plain to the ocean 75 miles away when the landmass that would become Nantucket was nothing more than a wide, low ridge of sand, gravel and glacial erratics (boulders), Smooth Hummocks is Nantucket’s version of the Midwest’s prairies complete with rare wildflowers and grasses that thrive in sandy, nutrient-poor soil.
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These so-called sandplain grasslands number less than 2,000 acres on the planet today and are protected as nesting habitat for the short-eared owl, studied by botanists, entomologists, used by island students for their ecology coursework and burned by the Nantucket Islands Land Bank for plant research and invasive species control. Smooth Hummocks is a fascinating island ecosystem with many things to teach us.
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This hike costs $65 for adults and $30 for children under 13. Check the Hike Calendar to see when we are hiking the Smooth Hummocks trail and to book it. To arrange for a private hike on this route, call or email us for our rates and to discuss your hiking needs.
What to Bring
- Please wear whatever walking footwear works for you, and we strongly recommend bringing the following items on our hike: bug spray, water, a snack, and sunblock lotion. You may also wish to bring a camera, binoculars and compass to see more, plus a lightweight waterproof jacket if it looks like rain!
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy walking shoes
The terrain can be sandy and uneven, so proper footwear is essential.
Bring binoculars and camera
Great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography are plentiful.
Check the weather forecast
Coastal weather can shift quickly—dress accordingly for sun, wind, or rain.
Stay on designated trails
To protect the habitat and ensure safety, stick to the marked paths.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Short-eared owl
- Seaside sparrows
History
The hummocks are part of Nantucket’s historic coastal dune system, shaped over centuries by wind and waves.
Conservation
The area is actively managed to preserve native plant habitats and protect nesting birds, with efforts focused on minimizing human impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Nantucket
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides support for uneven terrain and sandy paths.
Binoculars
Enhances birdwatching and wildlife observation.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects against sun exposure during outdoor activities.
summer specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while walking through coastal landscapes.