Sunken Forest Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Wildlife

It is really important to note that there is a real issue in this area with people feeding dear. Not only is this bad for the deer, but it also has led to the deer population exploding. This is harming this unique and fragile habitat. Thus, it is very important to not only not feed the deer but to also be careful with food scraps and garbage.

This trail is a boardwalk and it is the main trail at Sailors Haven in Fire Island National Seashore. It is unblazed but is very easy to follow. The name of this trail stems from the unique maritime holly forest through which it leads that seems to be sunken into the sand dunes. In addition to the trail, there are many areas with benches and for observation.

The trail begins at the visitor center and marina. For about the first half of a mile, it heads pretty straight in an eastward direction. It then reaches what is referred to as the "Heart of the Forest." This area has plenty of seating and is the beginning of this trail's loop. It continues eastward until it passes two spurs to overlooks along the Great South Bay. The trail then turns southward over the island's dunes.

Next, the trail passes over the sand Burma Road and turns westward as it double tracks with the Swale Trail. Once the trail passes an access trail to the beach, it turns northward. Here, it follows the sometimes winding boardwalk back to the heart of the forest and, finally, follows the walk back to the visitor center.

There are plenty of plants and animals throughout the forest to be observed and appreciated. However, the most important flora in this area is the maritime holly forest that gives this trail the name. This is a globally unique ecosystem. In fact, there is only one other place in the world with a similar habitat.