Experience the drama of rocky shoreline and scenic vistas across Vineyard Sound to the Elizabeth Islands from the second-highest point on the island. Like all of Martha’s Vineyard, Menemsha Hills was crushed, carved, and shaped by thousands of years of glacial advance and retreat. Today an array of mini-environments comprise a rugged, pleasant landscape: low wetlands, woodland groves leading to a hilltop, wind-blasted coastal plains, a rocky ocean edge, and 308-foot Prospect Hill.

Hike three miles of trails past holly, high-bush blueberry, and more than a few boulders and glacial erratics. Follow the Harris Trail to the top of the hill, which affords spectacular views of the Menemsha harbor entrance, the Elizabeth Islands, and Gay Head Light. Descend through the woodlands and hardy seaside groundcover to coastal bluffs overlooking Vineyard Sound, possibly one of the quietest seaside landscapes on the island, and enjoy the view or cast a line.

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at Menemsha Hills Reservation.