The Central Park Point is a peninsula in the eastern
quadrant of the Lake, which effectively
bisects it with its point aiming directly at
the heart of Bethesda Terrace.
Renowned for its bird watching
possibilities it is frequented by many who
cherish its rich and diverse species of foliage
as well as the tranquil rustic setting it
embodies. Its western bank drops off steeply
into a part of the Lake called Willow Oven because of the heat it generates in the
summer when the foliage is dense and
overgrows the shoreline. Willow Rock, which borders the
stone gateway to the Point, is a favorite of
birders who come to see the migratory species
as they pass through and settle down in this
area of the Park.
The peninsula is bisected by one single dirt
path as we see in this photo but there are
many little estuarial paths that lead off the
west and east side of the main one.
To the west are paths that wind
off onto the steep slope above the Lake and to
large rocks that are perfect for relaxing and
enjoying the view. Those leading out to the east
are nature paths that meander their way
through the wooded area and wind up at the
foot of Boathouse Rock at the far east end
of
the Ramble.
