
Menemsha Hills Reservation
Explore diverse trails leading to a secluded beach and stunning hilltop views at Menemsha Hills Reservation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Menemsha Hills Reservation
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse trails leading to a secluded beach and stunning hilltop views at Menemsha Hills Reservation.
"A beautiful hike with a quiet beach reward, perfect for a peaceful island escape."

🛡️ Tick Protection is Crucial
Always use insect repellent and do thorough tick checks after your hike.
📍 Find the Right Entrance
Look for the Trustees sign; Google Maps can be unreliable.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Prospect Hill Summit
Prospect Hill
Panoramic views of the island, even on a gray day. Worth the extra distance for stunning vistas.

Secluded Rocky Beach
Beach access via trails
A peaceful, quiet beach perfect for unwinding after a hike. Rocky shores offer a unique coastal experience.

Storywalk Trail
Harris Loop
An engaging trail for all ages, featuring a storybook along the path. Fun for families and nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tick Awareness is Key
Navigating to the Entrance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛡️ Tick Protection is Crucial
Always use insect repellent and do thorough tick checks after your hike.
📍 Find the Right Entrance
Look for the Trustees sign; Google Maps can be unreliable.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be overgrown and uneven, especially near the coast.
🚶♀️ Explore Multiple Trails
Hike the Brickyard Trail for a varied experience and beach access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛡️ Tick Protection is Crucial
Always use insect repellent and do thorough tick checks after your hike.
📍 Find the Right Entrance
Look for the Trustees sign; Google Maps can be unreliable.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be overgrown and uneven, especially near the coast.
🚶♀️ Explore Multiple Trails
Hike the Brickyard Trail for a varied experience and beach access.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers breathtaking scenery perfect for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Menemsha Hills Reservation for its beautiful views, peaceful beach access, and engaging Storywalk trail, making it a great spot for families and hikers. Some note that trails can be overgrown and caution is needed for ticks, while finding the entrance and parking can sometimes be a challenge.
"Great hiking spot for a breezy, overcast day (no bugs!). The path is pretty overgrown near the sea, so be prepared to step around lots of ankle-height plants. The beach was nice and quiet when we got down there though, and the trails higher up were wide and open for easily passing other hikers.
We almost passed the parking though - don’t let Google take you up the back way, or hand written signs will yell at you that no hills access is available 😂 look carefully for the Trustees sign off the main road if you come from the north! It was tough to find a parking spot mid-week, but we found one just as someone was leaving. There was also a clean port-a-potty available in the parking lot."
Randi Wilson
"We really enjoyed the beautiful Fall day and the trails here. We hiked almost 3.5 miles.
Gorgeous views.
Enjoyed geocaching here."
T S
"Really good hike, kid friendly. Plenty of signs and part of the hike has a story along the way. The second outlook was worth the extra distance with kids."
Caroline Leahy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reservation is located on Martha's Vineyard. Access is typically via car. Be sure to look for the official Trustees sign off the main road, as GPS can sometimes be misleading. Parking is available on-site.
While Martha's Vineyard has a bus system, direct public transport to Menemsha Hills Reservation might be limited. It's best to check local bus schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
There is a parking lot available at the reservation. It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season, so arriving early is recommended. A clean port-a-potty is usually available in the lot.
While Google Maps can provide directions, some visitors have reported it leading them to incorrect entrances. It's crucial to look for the physical Trustees sign to ensure you're entering the correct access point.
Absolutely! Menemsha Hills Reservation is a perfect destination for a day trip, offering hiking, beach access, and beautiful views. You can easily spend several hours exploring the trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Menemsha Hills Reservation is managed by The Trustees, and while many of their properties are free to visit, some may have parking fees or require membership for certain amenities. It's always best to check The Trustees' official website for the most current information on fees and access.
As an open reservation, Menemsha Hills is generally accessible from dawn to dusk. However, specific trail conditions or seasonal closures might affect access, so checking The Trustees' website is advisable.
Typically, no advance booking is required for general access to Menemsha Hills Reservation. It's an open natural space. However, if you plan on attending any special events or guided programs, booking might be necessary.
General access is usually permitted, but always be mindful of posted signs regarding trail closures, conservation efforts, or specific rules for pets. Respecting the natural environment is key.
The Trustees' official website is the best resource for up-to-date information on trail conditions, any temporary closures, or advisories for Menemsha Hills Reservation.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Menemsha Hills offers a variety of trails, from wide, open paths on higher ground to more overgrown, natural paths leading to the coast. You can find trails suitable for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike.
Yes, it's considered kid-friendly! The Storywalk trail is particularly engaging for children, and the open spaces allow for exploration. Just be mindful of ticks and supervise younger children.
The terrain varies. You'll find open, wide trails on the hills with gorgeous views, and some paths closer to the sea can be overgrown with ankle-height plants. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Dogs are generally allowed at The Trustees properties, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
A port-a-potty is typically available in the parking lot. Other amenities are minimal, focusing on preserving the natural state of the reservation.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Prospect Hill offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. The rocky beach also provides beautiful coastal shots, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Absolutely! The diverse landscape, from wooded trails to the open coast, offers opportunities to capture local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for birds and coastal plants.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The views from Prospect Hill are impressive in any light, though.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural and conservation areas to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check The Trustees' specific policies regarding drone operation before your visit.
The Storywalk trail offers a unique opportunity for creative photography, blending nature with narrative elements. The contrast between the wooded trails and the open beach is also visually striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider shorter loops if your children are young, and focus on the accessible parts of the trails. The views from Prospect Hill are also a great motivator for kids to reach the summit. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes suitable for varied terrain.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Be prepared for the overgrown sections near the beach and always prioritize tick safety by using repellent and performing checks. The combination of forest, hills, and coastline provides a rich environment for observing local flora and fauna.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the contrasting landscapes – the dense woods, the open hills, and the rugged shoreline. The Storywalk trail also presents unique framing possibilities, blending nature with the elements of the story.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
As you descend towards the coast, the trails can become more rugged and overgrown. Be prepared for uneven ground and vegetation that might reach ankle-height, especially on paths leading to the beach. Wearing sturdy hiking boots or shoes is highly recommended to navigate these sections comfortably and safely.
Many visitors enjoy combining different trails, such as the Brickyard Trail, to experience the full diversity of the reservation, from wooded areas to the rocky shoreline. The Storywalk trail, featuring a children's book, adds an educational and fun element for families.
Tick Safety: A Crucial Consideration
Travelers strongly advise using an effective insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin before heading out. After your hike, conduct a thorough tick check on yourself, your children, and any pets. Pay close attention to areas like the scalp, behind the ears, armpits, and groin.
While the risk of ticks might deter some, many visitors find that with proper precautions, the beauty and tranquility of Menemsha Hills are well worth the effort. The beach areas are generally considered safer, but vigilance on the trails is key.
Discovering the Coastal Charm
This beach is often described as a 'treat' after a walk, providing a serene spot to relax, listen to the waves, and enjoy the coastal scenery. Unlike more crowded beaches, Menemsha Hills' beach tends to be less populated, allowing for a more tranquil experience.
The combination of hiking through varied terrain and ending at a quiet beach makes Menemsha Hills a unique destination. It offers a chance to connect with nature, from the wooded interior to the refreshing oceanfront.
Social
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