Middle Lake is one of the
prettiest lakes in the park, and the walk around it is a delight. The
foliage surrounding the east and south sides of the lake feels more
natural than the manicured plant life around Stow Lake. There are also
a lot fewer people at Middle Lake, giving it a serene feeling.
One of the most delightful lawn areas in the entire
park is located along the southwest bank of Middle Lake. It is small
and little-known, yet has a very pretty view of the lake and the woods
beyond. While too public for making love, this lawn is definitely
worth visiting for a picnic. Park in the parking lot along the east
side of Chain of Lakes Drive between Middle and South Lakes. Take the
broad path leaving the northeast corner of the lot, and quickly turn
left on a smaller path leading to this area.
The forested area to the east of the lake has a maze
of little-used foot paths. There are some pleasant places to stop as
you walk through this wooded area toward the fly casting pools. In
fact, the easiest way to reach this spot is to start in the fly
casting parking lot. There are two paved paths that leave from the
west end of the lot. Take the right-hand path, go about 40 yards, and
turn right onto a small footpath. Stay to the right as you take this
path about 40 yards down to the bottom of a gradual hill. At this
point, turn right and go about 75-100 yards. There are a couple spots
on both sides of the trail that are pretty places for a picnic. You
can't get out of sight from the path without trampling foliage. But
this is a seldom-used path, and particularly on weekdays, you're
likely to be on your own here.
7 - Metson Lake
8 - Overlook Drive
9 - North Lake
10
- Bernice Rodgers Way
11 - Dog
Training Area
12 - Middle Lake
