Mashomack Preserve

I love Shelter Island, as I know many others do. But I’d wager that many folks who make the drive up 114 from the south ferry, whiz right by this lovely nature preserve, without even realizing what a gem it is.
The hiking trails here are very well maintained, nice and wide (so you’re not slogging through heavy brush) and spectacular in beauty. The Green Trail in particular, that runs along the cliff overlooking the beach & water, is just amazing. Frankly this is some of the nicest hiking on the east coast, if you enjoy beach-​y coastal scenery.
One of Shelter Island’s true gems!

Really well designed. Informative friendly staff. Lovely well kept trails.

2000+ acres of beautiful woodland, grasses and lakes. Four lovely walks from one for aged to a 10 mile rambler special. All accurately marked and nicely defined. Even after 5 inch of rain still easy walk. A must go for anyone who loves the country side.

A jewel to appreciate and enjoy.

This is a beautiful and very well maintained nature preserve that takes up more than half of Shelter Island. Trails go anywhere from a 1 mile loop all the way to an 11 mile loop. The terrain is very diverse: you start in a forest, move into a salt marsh and then to open fields full of butterflies. There are some great opportunities for photos with views of the bay in several locations. While you hike you will see chipmunks, deer, many beautiful varieties of birds as they would exist if they were alone. The man at the Visitors Center was very helpful and told me not to miss the views of the water from the green trail. Closes at 5pm, so don’t go too late. Ferries to Shelter Island are very convenient leaving every 10 – 15 mins. Please donate the $ 2 suggested donation or more, they really maintained everything so well! Overall if you are looking for a nice hike on LI and don’t mind a bit of travel this place is great! Don’t miss it!

had a great time in the preserve —
sat in the guest area and saw the birds thru the seating which was fun — the tour guide was awesome so chatted with him for a while
and once i start the trail — 10 minutes into it i spot a black and yellow ribbon snake 5 feet from me
thats it for me — i headed right out — they say its non venomous but i have no intention of carrying on —
PLEASE WEAR SNEAKERS AND PANTS — i had worn boardshorts and flipflops

About ¹⁄₃ of shelter island, this preserve is a great place to get out and see nature. Take one of several nature trails to that vary in length.
Closes at 5pm, so plan accordingly.