From the area surrounding Eaglevale Arch at West 77th Street to the south, extending
toward Hunters' Gate at 81st Street to the
north, is a wonderful expanse of Central Park's
natural space including a rolling meadow and nature
paths lined with split log benches.
The best way to enter Naturalists' Walk is
from beneath the Eaglevale Arch at which
point the route dips into a rolling meadow, a
choice resting area for residents and visitors
who enjoy the serenity of this rich environment.
Bordering the meadow to the east is a rocky
inlet and a rustic bridge which passes
over the
last trickling remnants of the Lake.
At one time this western estuary of the Lake
emptied into a small pond and was often used
in the winter by women to practice their skating
skills before venturing onto the highly trafficked
Lake with its boldly aggressive skaters. Hence
it was called Ladies' Pond.
To the north at the far end of the meadow is an
outcropping of bedrock which rises up to
overlook the network of paths that extend
from the 79th Street entrance which is directly
opposite the gateway to the Museum of
Natural History to Hunters' gate at 81st Street.
