What happened to the East Path?

In 1996, this picture was released as part of the 1997 "Myst - Ages in Time" calendar. After Riven was released, many people wrote in asking how to access this picture. To which the answer is: "You can't get there anymore, but you can still see this area briefly during two of the Magcar rides." This prompted people to ask for more information on this area, which I now intend to provide.

Years before the events shown in Riven, the islands were connected by bridges. This path used to be the bridge between the Garden Island and the Jungle Island. Since the islands were rapidly spreading apart, these bridges needed constant maintanence. Eventually, Gehn developed the Magcar system. It was easier to maintain (the rails were made to expand as the islands separated, only needing to be replaced when they'd reached their maximum length) and allowed quicker access between the islands (when first developed, Gehn did not yet have working Books.)

So, what are the details about this area? That's where the letters come in... (handy, ain't it?)

A) This stairway led to a second grove of trees. When Gehn was planning the power system for his defective Books, he planned to place the Dome in that grove.

B) There was an elevator back here which took you up to...

C) The upper east path with a steep, rickety staircase (no handrails!) which led to...

D) The door leading to the underground tunnel between the golden elevator and the wahrk viewing room. This door was widened so the Magcar would fit through it.

This screen shot was taken from the Magcar ride from the Jungle Island to the Garden Island. You can see the second grove from here, and where the East Path used to be (A&B). The upper East Path (C) has been removed , and the door (D) is much larger.

Another shot, closer to the Garden Island.