Slate Island

small, relatively flat island with low brush looks out towards opposite coastlines dotted with buildings and houses.

NPS Photo

This island is relatively inaccessible due to the dense thickets of poison ivy, raspberry, and barberry.

 

General Information

Slate Island of Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

 

Visitor Facilities & Services

Hours:
 9:00 am - sunset
Piers/Docks:
 No
Visitor season:
 0
Boat slips:
 0
Visitor staff:
 No
Moorings:
 0
Guided tours:
 No
Park boats:
 None
Lifeguards:
 No
Car access:
 No
Flush toilets:
 No
Campsites:
 0 (capacity ea: 0
Composting toilets:
 No
Group campsites:
 0 (capacity ea: 0)
Picnic areas:
 No
Camping capacity:
 0
Refreshments:
 No
Cooking grills:
 No
Drinking water:
 Yes
Walking trails:
 No

On-island Circulation: There are no trails on the island due to the abundance of poison ivy.

Visitor Cautions: Abundant poison ivy.

 

Short History

Prior to European settler colonization, Indigenous peoples accessed the island seasonally. Colonists extracted slate from the island. During the 1800s the island was occupied by a hermit. The island also served as a summer camp and was privately held until the 1970s.

 

Natural History Overview

Vegetation

Poison ivy, grasses, salt-spray rose, sumac, and ferns can be found on the island.

Wildlife

Please see Animals page for more information.

Geology

The island consists of slate outcrops covered with glacial till and rises to an elevation of 32 feet. The slate outcrops are surrounded by a rocky shoreline and extensive mudflats that connect the island to Hingham at low tide.

Water Features

Further research required.

Views and Vistas

One can view Hingham, Hull, Bumpkin, Grape, Peddocks, and Worlds End from the island.

 

Structures

Last updated: November 30, 2023

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
21 Second Ave
Charlestown, MA 02129

Phone:

617 223-8666

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