Best Hikes in Martha’s Vineyard
Whether you’re looking to escape the summer crowds or just want to see a side of the island that isn’t covered in sand, Martha’s Vineyard has some of the most diverse coastal hiking in New England. From glacial ridges to ancient “beetlebung” groves, here are five must-hit trails for your next visit.
1. Menemsha Hills (Chilmark)
This is by far the best hike in Martha’s Vineyard in our opinion. Spanning 211 acres, Menemsha Hills features the Harris Trail, which takes you up to Prospect Hill. At 308 feet, it’s the second-highest point on the island and offers a panoramic view of the Elizabeth Islands and Menemsha Harbor.
The Highlight: The “Brickyard” — a historic site where you can see the massive brick chimney remnants of a 19th-century factory right against the rugged shoreline.
Vibe: Dramatic, windswept, and a solid workout on the way back up. The landscape feels more like the California coast than New England.
2. Cedar Tree Neck Sanctuary (West Tisbury)
Managed by the Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation, this 400-acre sanctuary feels like a secret forest. The trails wind through dense woods, past freshwater bogs, and eventually spill out onto a secluded, rocky beach on the north shore.
The Highlight: The White Trail leads to a high bluff with spectacular views of Vineyard Sound.
Vibe: Enchanted forest meets rugged coastline.
3. Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary (Edgartown)
If you’re looking for wildlife, this is the spot. With four miles of interconnected trails, you’ll pass through salt marshes, meadows, and oak forests. It’s flat and well-maintained, making it perfect for a steady pace.
The Highlight: The Jessica Hancock Memorial Trail for views of the osprey poles and “pinkletink” frogs in the spring.
Vibe: Peaceful, educational, and bird-watcher heaven.
4. Waskosim’s Rock Reservation (Chilmark/West Tisbury)
This trail is steeped in history. The “Rock” itself is a massive 14-foot glacial erratic that once served as the boundary between English and Wampanoag lands in the 1600s.
The Highlight: The Middle Line Trail, where you can still see the 17th-century stone walls and the ruins of the James Allen homestead.
Vibe: Rolling hills, historic ruins, and deep woods.
5. Long Point Wildlife Refuge (West Tisbury)
Long Point offers a completely different landscape: a broad sandplain savanna. The two-mile loop trail borders the Tisbury Great Pond and leads you through a rare prairie-like environment that looks like something out of the Midwest until you smell the salt air.
The Highlight: The transition from the oak forest to the wide-open beach dunes.
Vibe: Open, airy, and great for a long, flat walk.
Quick Hiking Tips for the Vineyard:
Check for Ticks: The Vineyard is notorious for them. Stick to the center of the trails and do a thorough check after your hike.
The Trustees & Land Bank: Many of these spots are managed by The Trustees of Reservations or the Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank. Checking their apps/sites for live parking updates in the summer is a pro move.
Footwear: While much of the island is sandy, trails like Menemsha Hills and Cedar Tree Neck have plenty of roots and rocks—bring actual hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers.