By MV VacationUpdated 30 Sep, 20261 mins read 1,212 views
Chilmark · below Menemsha HillsPhoto by MV Vacation
The boulder beach under the clay bluffs at Menemsha Hills. Bikes aren't allowed on the reservation's trails, so lock up and walk down; this view is the reward for the hike.
An up-island bike ride near Menemsha Hills in Chilmark on Martha's Vineyard. Bikes aren't allowed on the reservation's trails, so lock up and walk down to the boulder beach.
This ride winds through the wooded hills near Menemsha on Martha's Vineyard, with plenty of twists, turns, and climbs (enough to make you work for it) and shade most of the way. One important note before you pack the bike: the Trustees' Menemsha Hills Reservation does not allow bicycles on its trails at any time of year, so save the reservation itself for a hike. For legal riding with real climbs, head for the quiet up-island dirt roads or the mountain-bike trails of the Correllus State Forest, and use the video below for a feel of the up-island terrain.
Filmed June 2023The island moves on: shops, signs and prices may differ from what you see here. The text of this guide was checked September 2026.
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Safety Notice: Martha's Vineyard roads, especially up-island, can be narrow and heavily trafficked during summer months. We strongly recommend sticking to the island's dedicated bike paths rather than riding on roads shared with motor vehicles. If you must ride on roads, wear a helmet, use lights, and exercise extreme caution. Cycling conditions change seasonally; always check current trail and road conditions before your ride.
Exploring the area? Start with our complete Chilmark guide: food, beaches and the local rhythm, all in one place.
Island tip of the dayDrivingNo. 16 of 86New tip at midnight, island time
Driving an EV? The island's only DC fast charger is at the Harbor View Hotel and it is Tesla-only. Town Level 2 chargers: free in Aquinnah and West Tisbury, 25¢/kWh at the Oak Bluffs and Edgartown park-and-rides.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general guidance only and was accurate at the time of writing. Beach conditions, hours, prices, lifeguard schedules, ferry fares, and business operations change frequently and without notice. Ocean swimming carries inherent risks including rip currents, undertow, and cold water shock. Always verify current conditions with official local sources before your visit. MV Vacation assumes no responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience resulting from the use of this information. Swim only where lifeguards are on duty, supervise children at all times near water, and follow all posted safety signs.
Your insider guide to Martha's Vineyard: beaches, dining, events, and island living. We write down what we know about the island so your trip goes the way you hoped.
Lobster on Martha's Vineyard from trap to paper plate: how the small Menemsha fleet fishes, the Massachusetts rules on size, egg-bearing females and whale-safe gear, where to buy lobster off the boat (Larsen's, Menemsha Fish Market, The Net Result), how to eat it on the dock with your own bottle, and how a visitor can get a permit and catch a few.
Every farm stand and visitable farm on Martha's Vineyard, checked with the farms in September 2026: Morning Glory, Beetlebung, North Tabor, Mermaid Farm's 24-hour dairy shed, Native Earth, Allen Farm, Island Alpaca, the FARM Institute and the West Tisbury Farmers Market, with hours, honor-system rules and the fall pumpkin dates.
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