North Atlantic Canoe & Kayak members recently paddled across the Great South Bay to Sailors Haven on Fire Island. Situated on the barrier beach, Sailors Haven is considered “The Jewel in the Crown” of the Fire Island National Seashore, combining the Sunken Forest with a magnificent, wide ocean beach.

The ancient history of Fire Island is alive at the Sunken Forest, an enchanting 300 year old primeval holly forest, which is the only one of its kind on the East Coast.

Under a diverse canopy of leaves, a 1.5 mile board walk meanders through freshwater bogs filled with a variety of trees and shrubs, such as blueberry and red maples; the maritime forest with its American holly and catbrier; and the swale between the dunes, with its grasses and low growing evergreens.

From Lynne: “Thanks, Steve, for planning such a fun-filled day paddling to Sailor’s Haven and walking through Sunken Forest. John–thanks for the laminated CHARTS! They certainly came in handy! Great group of paddlers! Great day!”

Lynne shared these pics using Dropbox. Enjoy! Click here to view NACK_7-22-14_Sailor’s_Haven