The North Woods

5th July 2019

Another New York morning, and I set out to walk through yet another part of Central Park.

North Woods - some 40 acres of forested area, with a natural stream - Montayne's Rivulet - flowing through it.

A favourite of dog owners and runners, it seemed, as I walked through, taking in the sounds of the water, the Robins in the trees and everywhere, the crunch of dry leaves and the squelch of the wet ones.

The magnificent oaks were all with new leaf.  Right now, I'm guessing this one is a beautiful russet colour.

A rocky ravine with a stream, little pools and waterfalls is the central feature, and with little bridges to crossover, it really is idyllic and peaceful.

These bushes (Lace Cap Hydrangea i think) lined the pathways on either side of the stream, and I have not been able to figure what they are.  

The Park leaves fallen trees (like this one) as they are - well for the most part I guess.

Lizard's Tail - Saururus cernuus - another widespread bush

And these lovely archways you can go through.  It seemed that I could wander a whole year and still not cover every pathway.

The light streamed through the trees, making for a beautiful view...I was not the only one who thought so.

The stream tumbled over another jumble of rocks.  And there were many American Robins which would rest on the rocks, in the sun and fly off and return.  

The stream also wandered with me under the Glen Span Arch.  And there were a few swimming tortoises here.

Emerging from under the bridge, I bumped into one of the many Rangers with his electric cart.  They do an amazing job, keeping the park clean, safe and helping visitors.  

I emerged into an area just called "The Pool".    

Rather algal at the moment I went.  I dont know if it meant it was not in great shape, or whether it was a time of year thing.

There were beautiful trees all around, of which I recognised only the weeping willow, on the left.  

I read later that a major tree mapping project of the Park was done and all species and their locations are mapped.

A lone Mallard? stood on one leg surveying the scene.  As I watched it pirouetted on the leg and as soon facing the other direction!

The sun was up, my stomach demanded breakfast, and I headed back to Harlem, passing these Bottlebrush Buckeye catching the sun.