In mid-March I visited the second phase of New York City’s High Line Park, which opened last year. This ½-mile section is as delightful as the first part, with some of the same themes carried throughout, but also containing some unique and exciting features. My favorite area is the Fly-Over, where the walkway rises to eight feet above the high line surface. From this level, one travels through the canopies of trees planted below, and one can peer down to the view the various plantings on the “forest floor”. The Fly-Over also includes several viewing spurs, including one that overlooks 26th Street.

The photos below will give you a tour of this elevated linear park from the 30th Street terminus to 20th Street, where the first phase of the High Line connects with the second section. Enjoy your walk!

Radial seating flanks the curved, northern end of the High Line, Section 2

The Wild Flower Field along the northern section before spring cut-back

The elevated Fly-Over takes people through the tree canopies

One of several viewing spurs along the Fly-Over

View of the “forest floor” from the Fly-Over

Another “forest floor” view with railroad tracks – a reminder of the High Line’s history

People relax on the 26th Avenue viewing spur. The metal frame is a reference to the billboards that used to be mounted along the High Line – Now it frames the city scene or the people on the spur, depending on one’s vantage point.

A shifting section of walkway, “peel-up” bench, and restored Art Deco railing – recurring elements along the High Line

Stairs lead down to 23rd Street, with the elevated Lawn in the background. From the northern section of the Lawn, one can look down either direction of 23rd Street and see both the Hudson and East Rivers. Metal strips in the pavement refer to the High Line’s former use as a rail line.

Cor-Ten steel planters near the 23rd Street stairs

The Lawn – a rare treat in this dense city environment. When this photo was taken, the Lawn was still closed off for the winter.

Seating steps at the south end of the Lawn, constructed of reclaimed teak

The Chelsea Thicket near the south end of Section 2 – A Winter Hazel is in bloom in the foreground.

Photos by Alice Webb