Cranberry Acres

Martha’s Vineyard is renowned for its coastal charm, rolling farmlands, and storied history—but nestled among its scenic woodlands lies Cranberry Acres, a lesser-known haven rich in ecological beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just seeking tranquility beyond the beaches, Cranberry Acres offers a refreshing escape on the Vineyard’s forested inland.

What Is Cranberry Acres?

Cranberry Acres is a conservation area located in the town of Tisbury, at the heart of Martha’s Vineyard. Managed by the Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation, it spans over 20 acres of protected land and features a network of walking trails through pitch pine forests, wetlands, and, as its name suggests, historic cranberry bogs.

Once an active agricultural site for cranberry farming, the property now serves as a preserved natural sanctuary. While the commercial cranberry operations have long ceased, the bogs remain a central part of the landscape, creating a fascinating blend of cultivated history and wild regrowth.

Highlights of Cranberry Acres

Tranquil Trails Through Vineyard Woodland

Cranberry Acres offers a well-maintained loop trail system ideal for light hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The trails are relatively flat and family-friendly, making them perfect for visitors of all ages. In spring and summer, expect lush greenery and the peaceful buzz of native pollinators; in autumn, the woods ignite with rich fall foliage.

Birdwatcher’s Paradise

The area’s mix of wetlands, thickets, and open bogs make it a hotspot for migratory and native bird species. Bring binoculars and keep an eye out for woodpeckers, hawks, herons, and warblers. The quieter atmosphere compared to coastal trails makes it ideal for patient birders.

Ecological Significance

Cranberry Acres is a snapshot of the Vineyard’s ecological diversity. It includes:

Coastal plain pond habitat — a rare ecosystem found only in specific regions of New England.

Glacial outwash terrain from the last Ice Age, offering unique geological features.

Restored cranberry bogs that now support native flora and fauna.

Conservation efforts continue to protect the sensitive habitats here, making every visit part of a broader environmental story.

How to Visit

Location: Cranberry Acres is located off Lambert’s Cove Road in Tisbury. Parking is available near the trailhead.

Access: The trails are open year-round from dawn to dusk. Leashed dogs are welcome, and it’s a popular spot for locals looking for a peaceful walk off the beaten tourist track.

Why Cranberry Acres Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary

While Martha’s Vineyard beaches and harbor towns get most of the spotlight, Cranberry Acres represents the quiet soul of the island. It’s a place where Vineyard history, nature, and solitude converge. A walk here is more than a hike—it’s a step into the layered story of the island itself.

Whether you’re visiting for a week or a day, make time to explore this inland treasure.