Friday, August 26, 2011

Boston Harbor Islands

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Boston Light  at sunrise  from Lovells Island.

After spending quite a bit of time visiting the Harbor Islands last year I decided to volunteer with the Friends of the Boston Harbor Islands.  The Islands are wonderful – just a short ferry ride and you’re able to explore old forts, swim, camp, hike, or just sit and do nothing. I’ve been helping out at Spectacle Island, Lovells and Boston Light.

A few weeks ago I decided to try camping on Lovells – the first time just one night and then this week, two nights. This is primitive camping – carry in/carry out -  no running water.  I totally loved it!

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There are a few very private campsites – others on the beach which are closer together and two larger group camping sites in open fields.  There is a composting outhouse – no smell! and a yurt where the two Rangers stay.

The Island isn’t very big – about 60 acres -

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There’s nothing to do – except explore, swim, take photos and just be. It’s quite a meditation to realize from one moment to the next that there’s no place else I’d rather be.

Of course, I was up for sunrise – love that morning light!

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Sunset wasn’t too bad either.

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Low tide reveals interesting tidal pools.

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and some great birds

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The Island has been home to Native Peoples, a Fort, Lighthouse with keeper and family.  Just ruins remain.

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I have more photos of some of the other Islands which I’ll post when I have time.

4 comments:

carol said...

I love the views of the city from the island...........a different perspective; just beautiful to see the contrast between the urban and the natural world...

Mimi Katz said...

thanks Carol - that's one of the things I really love about the Island.

carol said...

Looks like paradise and it's only a boat ride away. BEAUTIFUL photos!
Bill D.

Mimi Katz said...

You're right about that - you should it out next year!