#99: A Hike in Mashomack Preserve

Nestled off of Route 114 South, newly renamed Lt. Joseph J. Theinert Memorial Way, is a hidden gem to most, but a gift of natural beauty to the residents of Shelter Island.

Even on a snowy day, the walk to the Harman Hawkins Visitor Center greets you with beautiful scenery. Majestic trees line the way with birds in flight, as you make your way to the Center where you are sure to be greeted by a friendly Nature Conservancy staff member or volunteer.

Acquired by The Nature Conservancy in 1980, Mashomack was originally purchased to halt development of the land, where ospreys, deer, and rare species of birds thrive on 2,039 acres of pristine land. It has since remained protected, attracting visitors to Shelter Island on a daily basis.

The Harman Hawkins Visitor Center is a perfect place to visit, whether at the beginning or end of your hike. Embracing an educational environment, the visitor center is adorned with murals, hands on exhibits, and informational briefings. Along with detailed trail guides there is a guest book full of signatures compiled of visitors hailing from the East End of Long Island, New England and beyond. A wooden bench overlooks a wall-to-wall window, furnished with binoculars, a bird identification book, along with a note pad to record your sightings, making everyone’s experience something to share.

Avid hikers and families looking to explore are all welcome. Your visit to Mashomack is shaped by your interest and endurance. It matters not whether you prefer the 1 mile, 1.5 mile, 3 mile, 6 mile, or 10 mile hike, you are sure to see wildlife. Each hiking trail is conspicuously and conveniently marked with colors specific to each trail length. Extended mileage in your hike, allows you to view multiple habitats such as, freshwater wetlands, a salt marsh, and a flourishing meadow.

While admission to the Preserve is free there is a suggested donation of $2 for per adult and $1 per child. Donations will be used in the continuation of pursuing The Nature Conservancy's objective, to protect Mashomack.

Mashomack has available for your use, all terrain strollers, binoculars, and wheelchairs. Also, please remember to share your sightings with others in the guest book, the bird log or with staff members at the visitor center. In addition to your own hike, Mashomack offers nature programs and guided hikes throughout the year. For further information call the preserve office at 631-749-1001.

Mashomack Preserve is located on Shelter Island at 79 South Ferry Road, and is accessible by both the North and South Forks. If disembarking from Greenport (North Ferry), follow Route 114 three miles south. The entry will be on your left. If disembarking from North Haven (South Ferry), follow Route 114 one mile north, where the entry will be on your right.

While exploring the preserve’s unspoiled land, please do not remove anything you may find along your hike and remember to leave Fido at home, as these can be disruptions to the protected environment.

Category: Family, nature trails
Price: Suggested donation: $2 Adult, $1 Youth
Season: Year-round
Note: Cash Only

Stay tuned for # 98 next week, same time same place.