Directions: Steamship Authority or Hy-Line ferry service available
from Hyannis and Woods Hole, MA (travel time 1-2hrs). Most regularly scheduled
flights available from Boston, Hyannis and NY City (LGA). You will need a cab to downtown
from the airport.
Ferry docks at Steamboat Wharf or Straight Wharf where taxis and rental bikes are readily
available. Proceed to Information House on Federal Street and Pick up the free map
published by "Butterworth" Map Company, this is the most accurate and detailed
of the free maps available. Roadside trails to Milestone Rd. or Polpis Rd.
trailheads are paved. Milestone Rd. entrances to trails are the closest to Nantucket
town, and can be taken all the way to "Sconset", quite possible the most
beautiful town in the US.
Mile markers on Milestone Rd. are well-marked by white stones on on the north side
of the road. There are trail entrances just past the 1 mile stone, at about 1.75 mi.
and approximately 2.5, which is closest to a lookout over the bogs. Polpis Rd. entrances
include just east of Shawkemo Rd. or at the end of Altar Rock Rd.
Trail Information: Rolling, sandy trails with sublime views of
Nantucket conservation area, cranberry bogs, moors and America's loveliest Island. There
are few trail markings, although some point to Alter Rock lookout (elev 90'), which is an
excellent vantage point to plan your run. Surrounding land is delicate and aggressively
protected by Islanders and visitors alike, be courteous and respectful, although the
occasional Range Rover full of teenagers will seem to turn this warning on its head. This
area is almost entirely uncovered by trees and more like beach running, but it is a unique
experience at the right time of day (sunrise, sunset) and year (Oct. cranberry
season).
Miscellaneous Information: *No Water/Few Markings (bring a buddy)
*Nantucket has many other great roads biking trails for short or long runs.
*Great location for a weekend running/biking getaway.
*Cars can be ferried to Island, and rented on-Island; costs for both are unusually high
and not
necessary given multiple transportation options.
Tim Sullivan
.
.