Early Spring Ramblers in the Ramble
In the heart of Central Park lies The Ramble, with winding paths to walk and birds to watch.
The lush Central Park woodland, known as the Ramble, is composed of 38 acres of winding pathways between 73rd and 78th streets.
Described by Frederick Law Olmsted as a "wild garden", the Ramble's maze of trails amidst its abundant flora and fauna contrasts spectacularly with the formality of nearby attractions, such as the Bethesda Terrace. The Ramble is often noted for its bird-watching opportunities, where birdwatchers can catch a glimpse of some of the approximately 230 species found in the woods. Visitors can stop to take a look at the Gill, the man-made stream that runs through the Ramble.
While the Ramble's flora consists of many species of plants both native and exotic, several of these plants have taken up much of the woodland, such as the Black Cherry and Black Locust, due to lack of proper care. Other species found in the woods include American trees such as the American sycamore, several oaks, the Kentucky coffee tree, the Hackberry, the Yellowwood, and the Cucumber Magnolia, in addition to plants not indigenous to the country, such as the Sophora and the Phellodendron.
One notable fact about the Ramble is its status as a gay icon, which has developed since the early 1900's. A well-known site for private homosexual encounters throughout the 20th century, the woodland is now an important part of LGBT history.
The Ramble has been the subject of an ongoing restoration project by the Central Park Conservancy since 2006. The plan includes taking steps to give appropriate care to woodland vegetation and wildlife as well as controlling the amount of influence on the land by Park visitors.
Rustic Structures
In its original design, the Ramble boasted numerous rustic wooden features, including benches and shelter structures that beautifully complemented the naturalistic landscape, providing inviting spaces for relaxation and scenic appreciation. Only one of the historic rustic shelters remains today, with the others absent from the Park for nearly a century.
However, a reconstruction project is underway by the Central Park Conservancy to erect two rustic wooden shelters in their original locations, using historical drawings and photos as references. The first, known as the Umbrella structure, will grace a rock outcrop at the Ramble's south end, offering a shaded seat and picturesque views of Bow Bridge. The second, the Belvedere Summerhouse, a larger shelter with integrated benches under an overhanging roof, will be situated near the northwest corner of the Ramble, close to the Belvedere Castle.
The Conservancy has diligently protected active and vulnerable wildlife habitats during this initiative, marking a significant phase in their ongoing efforts to revitalize and sustain the Ramble over several years.