WINTER CONSERVATION WALKS

As beautiful as Nantucket is in the summer, a different type of beauty envelopes the Island in the quieter months of late Fall and Winter. There are no better places to feel this difference than in the Foundation’s 9,000 acres of trails, paths, beaches and open space. Even experienced walkers and long time residents are impressed with how the vistas and colors change with the seasons. Popular trails, often busy in the summer, are now easily accessible. Areas that are densely vegetated in summer become more open and offer astounding views. The opportunity to discover parts of the Island that members may not have the time to do in the hectic summer months becomes possible on a brisk New England winter day.

The Science and Stewardship Department sponsors a series of guided walks that explore different Foundation properties throughout the Island during the off-season months. Some of the areas that are visited may be the same as on our Mornings for Members summer walks, but participants are often impressed with the vast differences in the landscapes, plant life and animals that the colder weather brings. The walks are a bit shorter than their summer counterparts, usually lasting an hour and half. The trails are specially chosen to be easy to moderate in order to accommodate a wide variety of participants. The generally smaller groups lend themselves to more intimate gatherings with the opportunity to get to know and ask questions of our staff members.

Foundation members are encouraged to bring friends along with them as the Winter Walks are also open to the public. Please join us to learn more about the natural history, geology and wildlife habitats of some of Nantucket’s most beautiful and unique conservation lands.

The 2010 Winter Walks have been concluded for the year. Information regarding the 2011 walks will be posted by November 15, 2010. In the meantime the 2010 calendar is posted below for your reference.