At one time
a Central Park visitor to
Summit Rock had a clear view of the
New Jersey Palisades. Among the rock
elevations in the Park, which includesVista Rock and the Great
Hill,
Summit Rock is the highest natural
elevation of them all reaching a height
of 141.8 feet. To this day a visitor
can still get a glimpse of the Palisades in
the distance through the sliver spaces
separating the tall buildings of the
residential west side.
Summit Rock features an overlook with a
stone buttress stretching out along its far
eastern rim. This boundary in turn forms an
enclosure for a rustic stone "amphitheater" overlooking the wooded slopes to the east.
Situated along the rim are a row of benches
flanked on the western edge with a fountain
and stairs leading up to a grassy knoll, a
perfect spot for sunbathers or those who
just want to relax or read.
Winding up the southern slope of the rock,
and adding to its rustic setting, is a narrow
path with stone steps carved out of the
bedrock.
Offering calm to the clamor just beyond its
doorstep on Central Park West,
Summit Rock is the perfect place for
resident dog owners who can enjoy some
moments of tranquility with their
favorite companion.
