Maintained
by The Fire Island National Seashore, this unique area is one of
the last remaining maritime forests on the eastern seaboard. It
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. The Sunken
Forest consists primarily of American holly, sassafras, and
shadblow. Some trees are estimated to be well over 200 years old.
This
naturally preserved wilderness is abundant with hardwood groves,
dunes, swamps, and marshland. Serious hikers, bird watchers, and
ecologists find this part of the island absolutely fascinating.
With several ecosystems, there is plenty of diversity in the flora
and wildlife. While walking through the forest, be sure to look up
at the twisted canopy is the forest's most intriguing attribute.
The parks department provides guided tours during the summer
season. Sunken Forest is located in Sailors Haven, a great Fire
Island day trip destination.
