The Carter Center is in the middle of Atlanta, sitting between two Freedom Parkway lanes. When driving by, it is inconspicuous, nestled behind a collection of trees. I’ve passed by many times because Freedom Parkway is a quick way to get from downtown to the east side of Atlanta. To the east of the Center is a pathway dotted with sculptures, which I’ve strolled along many times, but I have never been inside the library or museum. A few months ago, while studying a map of the area, I noticed a lake on the grounds. From the outside, there is no hint of a lake. Intrigued, I decided to see what was there. As it turns out, there is a decent-sized lake with a walking trail around its perimeter! The lake sits behind the library and museum, so it is easy to miss unless you know it exists or see it once inside.
I accessed the lake by going down a flight of stone steps near a rear building entrance. The steps are near a group of oddly trimmed trees, and going down them, one comes to a gravel path that leads to the lake and, seemingly, out of the city. Looking over the lake, one is immersed in a tranquil countryscape that could be anywhere except in the middle of Atlanta. An occasional duck passes; otherwise, it’s quiet and perfect for a few moments of peaceful reflection.
Walking slowly around the perimeter, I located a spot that allowed for a good image of the lake, with a reflection of the surrounding greenery. The sunlight was a little much for the AF-C, with its max shutter speed of 1/430. When I have more time to linger, I will return to the lake and sit for a while.
