How to get at hidden spot in Dam Area

[TWM]

So in my previous game, I found a way up towards a hidden spot in the Dam Area (not the Mystery Lake side, but the other side, in the intermediate zone travelling to Pleasant Valley).

I didn't find a rope going up, but I did manage to sneak past that rock here.

However, when I tried the same thing again after the Penitent Scholar update, no luck! The tree over there is barring the way. Which is kind of annoying.

 

No, not getting past that tree... Tried left, tried right, tried scaling the rock. Can't do it!

So, is this on purpose? Any other ways of getting up there? Is there a permanent rope on the other side now?

[cekivi]

If you didn't find any objects in your hidden area or if it was a dead end it is likely that the tree is intentional to keep players in the game space.

[TWM]

I found objects there before though.

A body, some saplings, mushrooms, etc.

[Drifter Man]

I recognize that place. There is another route. Follow the river until you have the bank with the small cave on your left (there also are some rabbits, usually), then go uphill and back towards the dam. There is a path above the rocks that will lead you there. You can return down to the river through the spot in your picture, but as you say, I don't think you can get back up from there.