Come & Stay
The path less traveled: Guided winter walks
Four Vineyard conservation groups conspire all winter long to get us out of the house and onto some of the Island's most scenic paths. Led by ecologists and naturalists, the walks range from leisurely to vigorous. Join other hardy folk to explore trails, beaches, and preserves that reflect the quiet beauty of the Island in winter.
Felix Neck naturalist Susie Bowman leads a walk along the sanctuary's extensive trails. File photos by Susan SaffordThe sponsoring organizations - Polly Hill Arboretum, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, the Vineyard Conservation Society, and the Martha's Vineyard Land Bank - coordinate locations to ensure that the walks include a representative selection of properties Island-wide on non-competing dates.
Polly Hill Arboretum, West Tisbury
On the second Saturday morning each month, Polly Hill Arboretum, a 70-acre horticultural and botanical landmark, offers a guided tour. According to Tom Clark, Collections and Grounds Manager, Polly Hill's walks are led by staff members and focus on plants and natural history.
"There are gems in the winter landscape that many of us miss," Mr. Clark points out. "Our winter walks help people see the highlights of the season - the colorful plants and wonderful bark of the birches and stewartia. We can help gardeners select trees and shrubs that can add a lot of interest to the nine months of the year so often forgotten."
Learn about nature in winter during Polly Hill Arboretum's winter walks, to be led this Saturday by Collections and Grounds Manager Tom Clark.Upcoming walks at Polly Hill are scheduled for the following Saturdays: January 9, February 13, and March 13. The walks begin at 10 am and last up to 90 minutes. "The pace is comfortable," Mr. Clark says, "but the outings are not geared to children." There are no paved surfaces; the terrain is flat with grass or mulch paths. Plan on rain or shine, but leave pets in the comfort of your home. Walks are free to all. Read More...
