Shelter Island's Mashomack Preserve Makes List Of Top Trails

SHELTER ISLAND, NY — The rest of New York is learning what East End residents have long known to be true — Shelter Island has a treasure at Mashomack Preserve.

Shelter Island's Mashomack Preserve was listed in a post by onlyinyourstate.com, "13 Trails In New York With An Undeniably Amazing Final Destination."

According to the post, "This stunning park is a popular place to come and observe wildlife, while featuring a loop trail that takes you to secluded areas that you won't want to share with anyone else."

Located off of Route 114 South, or Lt. Joseph J. Theinert Memorial Way, Mashomack Preserve features the Harman Hawkins Visitor Center, where nature abounds.

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.

Avid hikers and families looking to explore are all welcome, with various length hikes available.

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 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.