Is this hike suitable for children?

Yes, the hike is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.

Pets are not permitted on guided tours to protect wildlife.

Do I need prior experience?

No prior experience is necessary; guides provide educational insights suitable for all levels.

Are there restroom facilities?

Facilities are available at the starting point and nearby areas.

What should I do if it rains?

Tours may be postponed or canceled in heavy rain; check with the foundation beforehand.

Are the trails accessible for people with mobility issues?

Some pathways are suitable for wheelchairs, but it’s best to contact the foundation for specific accessibility info.

Wildlife & Nature Tour at Linda Loring Nature Foundation | Guided Tour | Hiking

The Linda Loring Nature Foundation on Nantucket offers an engaging two-hour hike through its rich and diverse ecosystems. Located on the historic island of Nantucket, the foundation provides a perfect setting for those eager to connect with nature and learn about local flora and fauna. As you step onto the scenic trails, you'll encounter a mix of salt marshes, woodlands, and beachside habitats that highlight Nantucket’s unique ecological tapestry.

Your guided adventure features insights from naturalist Peter Brace and, when available, botanist Dr. Sarah Bois, who will point out fascinating plants, birds, and other wildlife along the way. The terrain varies from gentle dirt paths to slightly uneven sections, making it accessible for most visitors with a reasonable fitness level. The trip is especially appealing during spring and summer when the landscape bursts with vibrant plant life and bird activity, but it remains worthwhile year-round.

One of the standout features of this experience is the opportunity to see Nantucket’s signature species, including herons, egrets, and ospreys, while also spotting native wildflowers and salt-tolerant grasses. The foundation’s commitment to conservation means your visit supports local environmental efforts, ensuring these ecosystems remain healthy and vibrant.

Whether you're an avid birder, a family seeking an educational outing, or a nature lover interested in the island’s ecological heritage, this walk offers a meaningful connection. The foundation’s location at 25 India Street, Nantucket, MA, makes it easily accessible for visitors staying in Nantucket town, blending educational insight with immersive nature.

Prepare for a memorable journey into Nantucket’s wild side, with fresh air, scenic vistas, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife observation. A perfect outing to deepen your appreciation for natural landscapes and local conservation efforts.

About Nantucket Walkabout

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.