Sunken Forest
The Sunken Forest on Sailor’s Haven is one of the few remaining maritime forests on the eastern seaboard. It features trees that have been twisted and shaped by the constant salt spray, freshwater marshland, and abundant wildlife. Fire Island’s Sunken Forest is a perfect place to get out of the sun and take a peaceful stroll. Guided tours are available during the summer months. Maintained by The Fire Island National Seashore, Sunken Forest earned its name because it appears lower than the surrounding water. The forest is not actually below sea level -- the high surrounding sand dunes that protect this environment create the illusion of being lower than sea level.
The Sunken Forest spans approximately 40 acres, so there is plenty to see. You can walk for miles up and down the roller coaster boardwalks that carry you over two rows of sand dunes. In Sunken Forest’s depths, keen-eyed naturalists will recognize the American holly, sassafras, and shadblow trees that make up the oldest continuously growing forest on Long Island. Other plant species like the winged sumac, bayberry, blueberry, wild grape, bearberry, and poison ivy color the forest floor. Wildlife watchers will be thrilled at Sunken Forest’s 300 species of birds, and may even catch a glimpse of deer, red fox, raccoons, and other locals.
Sunken Forest can be reached by the Sayville Fire Island ferry to Sailor’s Haven during the summertime. At other times of the year, the closest Fire Island ferry stop is at Cherry Grove, a mile east.
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source: http://www.fireisland.com/thingsToDo.php 7/15/2009
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