By Tim Jahn, M.ED
Terrell River County Park is a passive park and preserve located south of Montauk Highway in East Moriches. Formerly known as the Havens Estate, this 263-acre preserve was purchased by Suffolk County in 1986. In 2001, the Moriches Bay Audubon Society was designated as the park stewards. There are no amenities like water fountains or bathrooms, but there are a few picnic tables and benches. It is a “carry in. carry out” park, so be prepared to bring out any garbage. Dogs are welcome.
There is a very small parking area right off the highway. Additional parking can be found north of the highway at Kalers Pond Town Park. A display case at the head of the trail contains a map showing the main trail and side trails. If you stay left, you’ll hit the main trail which continues approximately 1.3 miles to the bay where you’ll be rewarded with terrific water views. Walk east on the beach to the end of the spit and you’ll see the Terrell River and probably lots of waterfowl. On your return walk, take the first trail on the right if you wish to explore closer to the river.
The hike is an estimated 2.6 miles round trip over mostly flat, natural paths surrounded by woodlands. Some of the side trails are overgrown and narrow. If you bring younger kids who can’t do the entire walk, there is a halfway spot with a picnic table where you can turn around or take the path to the left and head back. Wear sunscreen and insect repellent in the summer and dress warmly in the winter.
If you do take the kids, you can also visit Kalers Pond Town Park which does have bathroom facilities in-season. In addition to the pond and its water fowl, there are picnic benches and the Flight 800 Memorial Garden and Playground. The park is managed by the Town of Brookhaven.
Tim Jahn is a Human Ecology Specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s Family Health and Wellness Program. He can be reached at 631-727-7850 ext. 331 or at tcj2@cornell.edu.