The Loch
The Loch, known for its three waterfalls, is the long, narrow watercourse that flows through the Ravine in the North Woods.
Paths on both sides of the Loch—Scottish for “lake”—provide views of the water, with some leading directly to its edge. One of the most peaceful spots in the Park, the Loch is lined with soaring trees that block out the surrounding cityscape and the sounds of its waterfalls muffle other signs of urban life. The area is a popular spot for birdwatching and other forms of nature observation.
Even though the Ravine looks natural, it was designed and built, like the rest of the Park. Designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux took some cues from the existing landscape and topography, creating the Ravine and Loch in an existing valley carved out by a meandering stream known as Montayne’s Rivulet. Park builders dammed and widened the stream, deepened the valley, and added plantings and features such as bridges and cascades.
Quiet Moments at the Loch
Immerse yourself in this peaceful and secluded winter scene at the Loch.
Marking the entrances to the Ravine on both sides are impressive combinations of rustic stone arches and cascades: Glen Span Arch and cascade and on the west side and Huddlestone Arch and cascade on the east side.
Things you can do here
Tours
Central Park Nature Walk: The North Woods
With its winding paths, lush tree canopy, beautiful birdsong, and charming waterfalls, this sprawling landscape provides the perfect escape.
Tags: Art & Architecture / Wildlife / Plants and Trees
Self-Guided Tours
Central Park Woodland Walk: The North Woods
Stroll through an idyllic landscape designed to bring a taste of the Adirondacks to Central Park.
Tags: History / Art & Architecture / Plants and Trees
Also in the area
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Park Information
A Reflection of Nature Itself: The Different Landscapes of Central Park
Central Park is made up of a variety of landscapes that are diverse, intricate, and interconnected—just like the communities of Park-lovers who enjoy them.
Tags: Trees / Nature Lovers / Lawns / Landscapes
Plants and Trees
A Tree Lover’s Guide to the Harlem Meer and North Woods
The North Woods and the landscapes around the Harlem Meer are home to a collection of New York City’s most showstopping trees—many of which are over 100 years old! Explore the Central Park Conservancy’s guide to the area’s best longtime leafy residents, curated by our expert arborists.
Tags: Conservancy Staff / Park Design / About the Conservancy / Trees / Highlights / Nature Lovers / Park Experts / Plants and Trees / Landscapes / Restoration and Maintenance
Things to See and Do
Central Park’s Most Instagrammable Wintertime Spots, Part II
With fewer crowds and a tranquility not found in other seasons, winter is an ideal time to photograph Central Park. Brave the cold and visit the Park this season—no filter needed.
Tags: Tips for Visiting / Winter / Highlights
Restoration and Maintenance
Hand-in-Hand with Harlem: The Conservancy's Four-Decade Restoration of Central Park's North End
In the 1980s, the Conservancy turned its attention to the Harlem Meer and went on to address the needs of Central Park’s north end over the next four decades. Throughout all of this work, the communities surrounding the Park have been vital partners in the care and maintenance of their backyard.
Tags: Conservancy Staff / Playgrounds
Plants and Trees
Urban Forest Bathing: Cultivating Calmness in a Chaotic City
“I don’t know if the founders of the Conservancy knew the term ‘forest bathing, but they clearly understood the Park’s potential as a space for wellbeing and rejuvenation—it’s right there in the Conservancy’s mission statement!” Meet the individuals who are introducing forest bathing to the busy New Yorker.
Tags: Park Design / Trees / Nature Lovers
Restoration and Maintenance
A Look Back: Improving Central Park in 2017
Things to See and Do
8 Secrets of Central Park
Tags: Tips for Visiting / Park Experts
About the Conservancy
A Shared Space: Finding Connection Through Conservation
Urban greenspaces like Central Park connect city dwellers to the intricate and dynamic ecological systems we need for reflection and recreation, and other species count on for survival.
Tags: Conservancy Staff / Pollinators / About the Conservancy / Nature Lovers
Things to See and Do
The Delights of Deep Winter: A Conversation Between Authors Florence Williams and Bernd Brunner
As deep winter sets in across the northern hemisphere, it’s worth recalling the kid version of winter in which the snow-covered landscape looked magical and playful.
Tags: Winter / Nature Lovers