Ithaca Falls

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7 days ago

Lovely water falls in Ithaca ny. I'm posting again just because it's such a great place ... and I noticed I had a really great photo that I didn't pass on the first go around. This duck with the baby on here back is a merganser. read more

Ithaca Falls - Merganser - Hiking Near Me

Ithaca Falls - Jumping ship - Hiking Near Me

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Vincent L.

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5 months ago

Very easy to access this waterfalls most time of the year. very beautiful in the middle of town. Winter might be a little slippery with ice buildup, but you can still get up close to the waterfall by following the trail on the side. Parking is free on Fall street. There is no marking, just a small lot. read more

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Maggie B.

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1 year ago

These falls are breathtaking and definitely worth a stop if in the area. There's a free public parking lot across the street and a very short walk over either a dirt hill path or across the rocky base takes you directly below the power and might of this huge rush of water. You can get close enough to feel the mist from the water, which is quite refreshing on a hot day. You can also see the falls from the overlook on the street, but the view is unobstructed and very much worth it if you venture a little further in. read more

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Jada C.

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11 months ago

What a beautiful place. Ithaca Falls embraces serenity and calmness. I visited this place about 10 years ago. The beauty never faded. The waterfall melts all the tension away. Something about the water clears the anxiety and makes me feel present. It helps to clear my mind. People can bring their dogs to this waterfall. My dog enjoyed walking around the water. As she gets her little paws wet, she drinks a little bit of the water. Maisie likes walking on the gray rocks. I think she views it as a hike. read more

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Joe C.

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11 months ago

Gorgeous falls probably the easiest stop off in the area to check out the falls. Ample parking but be warned its lumpy gravel be careful not to bottom out. It's a short hike to the falls. The water was relatively low today which is nice cause we can get substantially closer. There several warnings about swimming and diving dangers. Not the best location for that but buttermilk has swimming. read more

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DJ J.

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10 months ago

Beautiful falls in the heart of the city. Falls are 150 high. Falls are visible from the bridge but use the parking lot and walk a couple of minutes to the base of the falls. The walk is relatively flat but a little rocky. We were able to see same bass in the water below the falls. If you are in Ithaca make sure you spend a few minutes exploring the falls. read more

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Shelby A.

890

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2 years ago

Ithaca falls was the start to a long day of state parks and adventure. It is a much smaller park with a small gravel lot which we drove right past at first. Once we parked it's a short bit steep downhill to the flat sidewalk that goes to the park. It's small with seating and a trail that runs down the river to the beautiful waterfall all the way at the end. Maybe a 10-15 minute walk tops. Easy ground there are a few rocky parts that are uneven but most of the ground is flat. read more

Ithaca Falls - Ithaca Falls - Hiking Near Me

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Melody N.

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2 years ago

We came here right before the school dorms were opened. There were quite a few people touring and taking pictures, but it wasn't too long until we would be able to get a shot in. The falls were a short walk from the parking lot across the street(which was free)! The kids loved wading through the water nearby but we were careful not to go too close to the middle. There were several signs warning not to swim. The fall was quite stunning to see so close and the pictures really do not do it justice. Would highly recommend to visit and walk around. read more

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Andrea B.

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2 years ago

Short little walk to beautiful wide falls! There is free parking. Gorgeous, just like all the waterfalls in this area. read more

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Marissa C.

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2 years ago

Stunning view with a short walk to access. The falls are located inside of a city park that offers a small parking area. Lovely waterfall!

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Brad M.

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2 years ago

Located in Downtown Ithaca with convenient parking nearby, Ithaca Falls was our favorite waterfall. You can sit along the ledges to fully take in the stunning sights and sounds. The walk to the falls is short, though there seem to be nearby trails for further exploration. The stream, or river, connects a series of waterfalls, making it easy to visit several in a row. read more

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Jessica P.

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3 years ago

Amazing waterfall and rich in history. Loved the sign about how Cornell founded it and the gun factory that used to be there. Great warning signs as well. You could walk right up to the falls. Great scenic spot. read more

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Lina L.

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2 years ago

Great and accessible falls behind my apartment. It was so nice to come here for a walk in the evenings. There's some flat area next to the waterfall to just sit and relax. The walk towards the waterfall was rocky but super easy and only took like 5 minutes. read more

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Samantha R.

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2 years ago

Beautiful place to explore and feel the breeze of the waterfalls. A lot of tourists there. read more

Ithaca Falls - Ithaca waterfalls - Hiking Near Me

Ithaca Falls - A view of Ithaca waterfalls - Hiking Near Me

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Carrie G.

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5 years ago

We came on the way to the Finger Lakes and stopped by the take a look at the Ithaca and grab lunch in the area. Loved that this was a great place to stop and do a 15 minute hangout with a short few minute hike for a great view of a waterfall! Parking lot was definitely small but we were able to get one of the last spots and walked just a few minutes down (don't just view it from the bridge!) over some rocks and get to the spectacular view!. Here are the coordinates to the parking lot https://goo.gl/maps/1VttSDmcXcSPvRqy7 read more

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Erin T.

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3 years ago

Such a chill place in the middle of Ithaca. It's an easy walk to the waterfall from the parking lot. (Free parking.) Cute little neighborhood across the street to walk around in. read more

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Hunter S.

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5 years ago

Ithaca Falls (I'm referring to the town and large waterfall proper) is very quirky and pretty, but I enjoyed Robert H. Treman Park (also further out in Ithaca) better. This place, full of nature, Cornell University, little shops and restaurants, is definitely worth a visit, but I think the main falls is overrated. The main trail going to the base of the falls wasn't even open when I went. There is supposed to be a mural project, which I plan to visit later. Definitely a college town as well! read more

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Amanda K.

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3 years ago

Ithaca falls is a beautiful and fairly easily accessible waterfall to get to. There are a good bit of rocks to navigate your way through but it wasn't too challenging. There is a small parking area a short walk away that holds about 20 cars. We walked down and then over to the falls. We spent about 10-15 minutes here. It's a nice place for a quick photo but not a place for hiking. Dogs welcome and no swimming allowed! read more

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Win C.

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5 years ago

Soooo pretty. I had no idea Ithaca had so many falls and this was one of my favorites because it's sooo discrete. We parked our car nearby and it took us 5-10 minute walk to get to the falls. We literally walked up to the heart of the waterfall and barely anyone was there at 11am. read more

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Bill T.

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8 years ago

These falls are beautiful. Although you can see them from the street (bridge) it's worth a five minute walk to the rocks below the waterfall. So amazing that this beautiful scenery is in the heart of a city. It's a little rocky towards the falls but a fairly easy walk over all. Great spot for a picture with your sweetheart! read more

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Taylor O.

Elite 25

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4 years ago

On our last day of our BabyMoon, we had some time to kill. One of Yelp's top suggestions was Ithaca Falls. It is stuck right in the center of the city, which we did not expect. There are a couple parking options then you walk to the falls off a small trail. Not bad at all. There was a lot of space to sit with your friends or family. It could even be a great spot to do a picnic lunch. The falls were in full action and was a peaceful view. It was definitely a great time killer! read more

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ZhuZhu L.

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4 years ago

This is a very cool place to visit in Ithaca. There are many fall here but this is one has very easy access and wonderful view. How I don't like is people continue to swim here when the sign says "no swimming". read more

Ithaca Falls - Entrance - Hiking Near Me

Ithaca Falls - Water Beatles - Hiking Near Me

Ithaca Falls - The fall - Hiking Near Me

Ithaca Falls - Side view - Hiking Near Me

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Wendy P.

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4 years ago

A very beautiful waterfall with a short easy trail to go see it up close. Be careful some rocks near the water are slippery. read more

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Richie H.

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9 years ago

Great falls. I was a bit confused on where the falls are since I typed it into Google Maps and it led me to this general area with no signs. I ended up parking upon a small hill and asked the locals where it was. It's a short 3-5 minute walk to the falls. It's a great sight to see! It hasn't been raining around the area so the other falls we've seen have been disappointing, but this looked great. No need to pay for parking and it's free! read more

Ithaca Falls - Awesome rock chairs - Hiking Near Me

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Kevin L.

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16 years ago

Easy parking lot. Easy walk through the woods. Plenty of afternoon shade. A small number of sunbathers and waders. Oh, and some pretty-to-look-at falls (reportedly much less impressive during the midsummer, when I was in town). The falls were way more pleasant to watch/listen to than the other visitors. Even for someone who adores people-watching as much as I do. Escape the hubbub and hectic crowd at Buttermilk Falls with a trip over this way to chill out (literally and figuratively - it's five or ten degrees cooler by the water), have a chat, do a crossword, or just plain sit. Just bring your own company and don't expect much in the way of eye-candy; you're guaranteed to have a grand time. read more

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Elliot H.

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6 years ago

Easy parking, don't look at it from above, walk down and get close to it. Otherwise you won't feel the power of the falls. Also pictures don't do this justice, the falls are very big and beautiful. Great spot for a 10 -15 minute hangout and photo opportunity. read more

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Joshua B.

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7 years ago

These falls were right inside town and quick to check out. They are quite impressive and the view was spectacular. The lead warning signs were a bit concerning. Parking was easy and less than a 5 minute walk and you were staring at the incredible falls on the waters edge. read more

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Michelle R.

Elite 23

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5 years ago

There were quite a few people there when we went and it wasn't a busy time. Not a lot to do once you get there but it was a nice break on our walk. read more

Ithaca Falls - Graffiti - Hiking Near Me

Ithaca Falls - Lone Canadian Goose - Hiking Near Me

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Emily W.

Elite 21

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6 years ago

A great swimming spot to check out some falls if you don't want to hike. Parking can be tricky - there's a steep hill with many potholes - but it's a very short walk to the water! read more

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Darth V.

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5 years ago

Beautiful falls! ... Try the famous trick of staring fixedly at the water for a few minutes & then suddenly shifting your focus to the rock wall ! -- You'll have to pinch yourself to remember that you're sober! ... It's a super-lead site, due to the legacy of the gunworks -- which I guess they're working on as of now apparently ... So just remember to hose down the kiddies when you get back afterwards ... Unless you want them to grow up to be like "T-t-tell me again about the r-r-abbits, George!"! read more

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Enxhenia D.

Elite 21

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7 years ago

So beautiful!!! A must see if you are in the area. Not really a hike trail. Just a short walk down a small hill to the base of the falls. There is even a parking lot across street for easy parking. read more

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Alex L.

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10 years ago

Ithaca Falls are beautiful and absolutely worth seeing. It's so easy too; we saw these while driving on the main road and simply decided to park and walk over to see them. Ten minutes and some beautiful photos later, we were on our way. I love Ithaca for its variety of waterfalls. I like Taughannock Falls moreso than Niagara Falls and it's the tallest waterfall on the east coast. While this is a review for Ithaca Falls, be sure to check out some of the other waterfalls while you're in Ithaca. Ithaca Falls is indeed the easiest one to see. Just pull in, watch and you can be on your way. read more

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Dewan A.

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10 years ago

Amazing! 1) This waterfalls is HUGE! 2) The power and might of this waterfalls is breathtaking. 3) It is a short hike to the falls. 4) It is free. read more

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Linda L.

Elite 24

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11 years ago

I knew Ithaca Falls would be beautiful, but I certainty wasn't expecting it to be as beautiful as this! I came in the late October and the leaves were all different colors... literally could not take my eyes away. A really great stop to make a quick stop to get a view of nature. You can pull over into a parking area and just walk down the small hill (~3 minutes) to get to the waterfall. It's really mesmerizing, and unlike many parks, you don't have to walk very far to see the main site. read more

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Veronica K.

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11 years ago

I wish I could rate these falls higher, but the EPA signs posted about lead levels really made me paranoid. I'm not sure if this was caused by some incident, or by random chance they started doing lead testing here; either way it really kills your enjoyment of something when you wonder if you have to throw out all the clothes you're wearing due to contamination. Anyway, after some rainfall these falls are spectacular. I figured this would be my last stop in Ithaca and didn't expect much, but they really are a beautiful sight. If you're brave enough it's possible to walk directly up to the falls, and if I'm not mistaken, get behind them. I would definitely tell any adult to go check it out, but leave the small children and dogs home so they don't get a toxic reaction to the lead. read more

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Grace P.

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3 years ago

Easy access and a very very short walk to see the beauty of the falls. Perfect if you need a low energy but high reward walk.

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Milee S.

Elite 22

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8 years ago

I cannot believe I lived in Ithaca for 2 years and never made it to Ithaca Falls. We were in the area and my husband wanted to see some of the gorges and waterfalls. Not really having time to hike, we were looking for the ones that were fairly easy to access. Ithaca Falls hit that mark! Easy, free parking in the small lot across the bridge led us straight to the short path to the magestic falls. Being from California now, it is so nice to see a full waterfall due to the rain the East Coast gets. The stone/rock path was short and led to some great photo opportunities of the falls. Definitely a fun and easy waterfall to visit. read more

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Jennifer L.

Elite 17

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14 years ago

One of my favorite of all the easily accessible (walkable that is) waterfalls. Parking lot right beside it and a very short, easy walk to the base of the falls. Not sure what the previous reviewer is referring to by the "secret entryway" because it's so easy to get to, but if you want to share this special entryway, help me enhance my "Ithaca is gorges" experience. I went in the fall, so there was no swimming for me, but there were a handful of people fishing. I heard a lot of the waterfalls tend to dry out in the summer, in particular the Taughannock, but no issues for me at any of the falls. This was one of the easiest to see, from town, from a bridge, no hiking involved. Ithaca is gorges! read more

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Paul D.

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7 years ago

Ithica Falls is the perfect waterfall to visit if your not into hiking a long distance to see an amazing waterfall and take some beautiful photos . The sound and site is breathless. read more

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Jess M.

Elite 19

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11 years ago

Ithaca Falls is absolutely beautiful. The only reason for four instead of five stars is because I was looking for falls a little bit more away from "civilization". That said, if you are looking for something with quick and easy access, this is your place. Parking is right off the street up a little bit of an incline. The "hike" to the falls isn't what I consider a hike, rather it was a walk in nature. It was so beautiful and peaceful here, and our dog enjoyed that the "hike" wasn't anything long or vigorous because it was so, so hot outside. All of the signs about lead didn't cause me concern, because really, anything bad can happen in any situation. So, I try to enjoy every moment. I would have loved to sit here on a towel with a book, because the sound of the falls were just so peaceful and calming. But, the heat (and our dog who gets antsy quickly) caused us to spend only about ten minutes here. I will definitely be back in nicer weather, likely in the fall to see the change of leaves. Maybe then I will up it to five stars. read more

Ithaca Falls - This sound of the water falling is so peaceful and soothing! - Hiking Near Me

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More info about Ithaca Falls

Ithaca, NY
Directions
Visit Website
http://nyfalls.com/ithacafalls.html

Hours

What time does Ithaca Falls open?

What time does Ithaca Falls close?

Outdoor Amenities

Does Ithaca Falls have parking?

Yes, Ithaca Falls has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Review Highlights - Ithaca Falls

“You can find this waterfall at a small recreational area at the intersection of Lake and Falls Streets.”

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Explore benefits

Robert H Treman State Park

(117 reviews)

8.1 km

Out of the hikes I've done around Ithaca, Robert H. Treman State Park has been my favorite. The…read moregorge trail and rim trail loop offers beautiful views of the Enfield Glen gorge and waterfalls, especially with the fall foliage. It's moderate difficulty. There is a swim area by the bottom parking area. Both times I've visited this park it was closed due to being off season in October. $10 per car. You can use the receipt to enter any NY state park on the same day.

This was one of my least favorite places to camp because the campsites offer no privacy and have no…read morespace or trees separating you from your neighbors. If you prefer a more intimate and peaceful camping experience, this is not the place for you. There is a swimming area that has a lifeguard on duty snd many waterfalls to see. That being said, the gorge trails are fantastic and worth visiting for day hikes. The hike is not particularly challenging and is a couple miles long. The views of Lucifer falls at the end are awesome!

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Stewart Park

4.6

(14 reviews)

1.3 km

This park is brimming with sights and activities!…read more It looks out on Lake Cayuga. There are lots of benches and swing seats that offer stunning and shaded views of the water. The grass is well-maintained and perfect for laying out a blanket. There are coal fired grills available. There's also a basketball hoop (not a full court) and a jogging/biking path. You can rent kayaks and cross a pedestrian bridge over the creek that runs through it. They also have a bird watching trail. There are public restrooms, which were clean but out of toilet paper and soap when I visited. Great place to enjoy the outdoors solo or with friends and family.

We were vacationing in the Ithaca area recently, and Stewart Park was hands down our toddler's…read morefavorite place during the entire trip. The play area for children is large, and accommodates children of varying ages and abilities. The adults in our group also had some fun on the playground, since there weren't too many other groups when we visited. Along the lake, there are a good number of benches for sitting, including bench swings. The main path of the park is paved, so it makes for easy walking, stroller pushing, little kid biking/scooting, etc. We liked this park so much that we came here twice on our short vacation. I would definitely recommend it for families with young children who need to burn off some energy.

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Taughannock Falls State Park

4.6

(166 reviews)

13.5 km

[Tuh-Gan-Ick] Falls state park is one the of most beautiful state park in NY. It has spectacular…read morenatural attractions of waterfalls, and a lake front on the other side of the road The Gorge Trail to the waterfall is very easy to access. I visited in the winter to see the falls frozen over, and the park rangers had done an excellent job keeping the trail well maintained. It takes about 20 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the waterfall, and there's very little elevation change along the way. North Rim trail entrance was close during winter due to ice and snow. But you can skip the dangerous part of the trail by parking at the Taughannock Falls overlook point and start hiking from there. Then you will reach the upper falls. Parking is only $10. lot is small so warmer weather probably will fill up pretty quickly.

I visited Taughannock Falls State Park about a week ago when my husband and I were in the Finger…read moreLakes for the 4th of July, and I'm glad we included it in our itinerary for our trip. The highlight of the park - and its namesake - is Taughannock Falls, a 215-foot plunge waterfall. That's what we were there to see, but let me explain more about the park. The park crosses Taughannock Boulevard. On one side of the road, is the park of the park with lots of amenities: the marina, boat launches, a beach, a concession stand, bathrooms, a playground, and more. We were there on the morning of the Fourth of July, so lots of families were setting up for a fun day for the holiday: picnics, beach, boat day, etc. On the other side of Taughannock Boulevard is the waterfall and several trails. There is one parking lot by the trails, which was already full when arrived around 9am on Saturday, which was the Fourth of July, but we parked near the entrance on the other side of the park and walked over to the trail. There is signage requiring cars on Taughannock Boulevard to stop for pedestrians; it felt safe to cross. We took a little walk around the side of the park with the amenities, but we were there for the falls. We walked along the Gorge Trail - a .95 mile trail that is very flat. While not paved, it was a flat, wide dirt path, making it much more of a walk than a hike. Compared to other parks with falls in the area, it really doesn't feel like you're *in* a gorge, but you do walk along Taughannock Creek. But it's not quite as beautiful of a trail as some others in the area. But we were for the waterfall, which is incredible. It's worth a sweaty walk (it was a hot, hot day) to get to. We took a million pictures, watched the hawks flying over the falls, and took in the falls for as long as we could before heading back along the Gorge Trail. (Unlike other parks nearby, the Gorge Trail doesn't connect to the other trails, so you have to return on the same trail.) It might not be my favorite of the state parks we visited during our time in the Finger Lakes, but the waterfall is stunning and well worth a visit. It's also a great option for anyone who wants to visit a waterfall but isn't up for a more challenging hike, as the Gorge Trail is extremely flat and easy!

Cayuga lake

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Buttermilk Falls State Park

4.5

(132 reviews)

4.5 km

Great short walk along the buttermilk falls. There are quite a number of stairs involved as well as…read morerelatively steep paths. Overall the hike should be like an hour from lower falls to upper falls (taking photos and enjoying the view along the way), and half hour on the way back if walking straight no side tracking. You'll know you're at the end of you see the massive stone bridge. Restrooms available at lower falls and upper falls entrances. Ten dollar admission for the day, same ticket can be used for other state parks in the area

My husband and I visited Buttermilk Falls State Park last week, when we were in the Finger Lakes…read morefor the Fourth of July. We arrived in the afternoon, paid the vehicle entry fee, and parked in the parking lot. After taking a look at the falls, which has a swimming area (open for swimming on summer weekends - check their website), and using the bathrooms by the falls, we started up the Buttermilk Falls Gorge Trail. The trail ascends about 600 feet from Buttermilk Falls, following Buttermilk Creek past pools, rocks, and smaller waterfalls. Around Pinnacle Rock (a 42-foot rock along the creek), you can turn back and head back down the same trail or cross the bridge over the creek and take the Rim Trail back to the falls/parking area. It was almost 100 degrees when we visited, so we opted to take the Gorge Trail back down as it appeared more shaded than the Rim Trail, which was getting a lot of afternoon sun. The trail was really beautiful and a great start for our holiday weekend in the Finger Lakes. I'd certainly love to return, hopefully next time wearing a swim suit so I can take dip in the pool at the base of the falls after a hike!

First test spot on the walls

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The bridge to cross the falls on the top

Cascadilla Gorge Trail

(26 reviews)

1.1 km

Glad I got the chance to check out this check trail. It's been closed since I moved to Ithaca for…read moresome maintenance and just the winter but it's well worth it. You know it starts in the heart of College town right next to the theater in the law school and immediately spectacular fall with the stone arch Bridge. It's gorgeous the Falls continue Cascade down several bends and turns the trail comes right up to the Falls just pouring right next to you as your Spencer Street. There's another arch bridge and the final cascading Falls at the bottom. It was pretty nice. It was. It's kind of picture box by a nice little cherry blossom or I think maybe an apple rose blossom or something but well worth it on this nice spring day to check out now that it's open if you go to Cornell, definitely check it out. It's well worth it and it drops you off right at commons. So if you're taking the street to the commons from college town, considered this and said it's great.

This awesome trail is right in downtown Ithaca. Parking is a little tricky, but there are free…read morespots and park to pay spots. Definitely read the signage! I read some reviews about this trail before going and everything was accurate and amazing. It's a simple enough trail that is just over 1 mile out and back. Dogs are allowed and there are several steps. It's very peaceful and beautiful. There is a waterfall around every corner!

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Triphammer Falls

3.7

(7 reviews)

1.3 km

Super easy to get to- free parking on weekends with a short walk. You get to drive around Cornell's…read morecampus too which is a plus! Pretty empty in the summer

This waterfall is more of a walk-by spot, as there's no access to the bottom. However, there's a…read morebeach area and spots to launch a canoe or kayak. The trails appear to circle the lake, offering great fishing opportunities, which were quite popular during our visit. Parking can be a challenge, as most spaces are reserved for the nearby college.

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Cornell University Ornithology Lab

4.7

(11 reviews)

4.5 km

One of the coolest places I've ever been! The outdoor trails are incredible, with beautiful…read morehabitats that attract a wide variety of birds. We saw during our short walk two Osprey and Ruby-crowned Kinglets while exploring. The inside is just as impressive, with one of the best interactive museums I've experienced, full of fascinating specimens and thoughtful learning opportunities in a gorgeous building. The gift shop is well stocked and collaborates with Wild Birds Unlimited. A must see if you're in the area and into conservation or wildlife!

Nice viewing area inside the building, with provided spotting scopes. The girl behind the welcome…read morecenter desk was nice and friendly. We did NOT see much in the way of wildlife or birds, like we had hoped we would. That could be from the time of year I suppose. I'm sure the place is teaming with wildlife in the fall months. The biggest complaint/suggestion I would give to the people that run it is to have a BETTER system for marking the trails. There are maps at trail intersections, but they are VERY confusing. EVERY time we thought we knew where we were going, we NEVER ended up in the right spot (and I'm a seasoned veteran of woodsmanship for over 50 years!). PLEASE COLOR CODE the trails to help people ensure they are on the CORRECT trail. Some areas we saw twice, other areas we missed. Not sure about when we might return.

The trails need to be color coded or something to help people find the correct trail they want to take.

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Ludlowville Park

4.0

(2 reviews)

11.8 km

This park is beautiful! It's tiny, with a small playground and a little pavilion with a grill…read more There is a little swing seat by the falls as well. There is a path down, but it was rushing enough that we didn't try to go down. But still, it was beautiful!

Small public park with a steep off beat path down to a waterfall overhang, small veranda and a lot…read moreof teens swimming in the watering hole here. The area is a little slippery with the rocks and you have to be careful to not turn an ankle. Not handicapped accessible to the falls aside from the view at the rim. Deep overhang helps keep it cool but also have to watch falling rock eventually.

Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

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Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

Taughannock Falls Overlook

4.5

(22 reviews)

13.5 km

Overlook is half way point of North Rim Trail. Since half of the trail was close during winter…read more People just drove and park here (free parking). There is a visitor center and bathroom but it wasn't open when I was there. View is not bad. It is a 2-minute stop. Take some picture and then go back to the car. Gorge trail has better view because you can get close and feel the energy of the waterfall.

The high point (literally) of the trail. It's definitely worth the hike!…read moreThe overlook gives an excellent view of the whole park! It's one of those once in a lifetime places that you have to visit yourself to truly appreciate.

February 2025

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Cornell Botanic Gardens

4.6

(32 reviews)

1.6 km

Amazing! Well kept, organized and a beautiful way to spend the day. We went to the gardens around…read morethe welcome center, which was good enough for us. However, the campus has SO many gardens that they maintain, so there are plenty more to visit.

Formerly known as the Cornell Plantations and consisting of 25 acres, Cornell Botanic Gardens is…read moreone of the most popular attractions around Ithaca and has something for everyone, which is why my partner, his family, and I came for a visit on this beautiful Saturday. Located in the center of the Cornell University campus, but also including the adjoining F.R. Newman Arboretum and over 3,500 acres of natural areas, there were hiking trails, nature walks, gardens, ponds, woodlands, meadows, glens, waterfalls, fens, bogs, and, of course, "gorges." The well-kept gardens were easy to access, easy to walk around, and were extremely quiet. It's very kid- and pet-friendly. The historic core revolves around the herb and perennial garden. Admission is FREE, but one does need to pay a parking fee to enter the park on weekdays. It runs you $1.50 per hour, so it's exceptionally reasonable, but it's free on weekends. We enjoyed our drive through the campus to get to the botanic garden, which we can recommend.

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Buttermilk Falls State Park

4.5

(132 reviews)

4.5 km

Great short walk along the buttermilk falls. There are quite a number of stairs involved as well as…read morerelatively steep paths. Overall the hike should be like an hour from lower falls to upper falls (taking photos and enjoying the view along the way), and half hour on the way back if walking straight no side tracking. You'll know you're at the end of you see the massive stone bridge. Restrooms available at lower falls and upper falls entrances. Ten dollar admission for the day, same ticket can be used for other state parks in the area

My husband and I visited Buttermilk Falls State Park last week, when we were in the Finger Lakes…read morefor the Fourth of July. We arrived in the afternoon, paid the vehicle entry fee, and parked in the parking lot. After taking a look at the falls, which has a swimming area (open for swimming on summer weekends - check their website), and using the bathrooms by the falls, we started up the Buttermilk Falls Gorge Trail. The trail ascends about 600 feet from Buttermilk Falls, following Buttermilk Creek past pools, rocks, and smaller waterfalls. Around Pinnacle Rock (a 42-foot rock along the creek), you can turn back and head back down the same trail or cross the bridge over the creek and take the Rim Trail back to the falls/parking area. It was almost 100 degrees when we visited, so we opted to take the Gorge Trail back down as it appeared more shaded than the Rim Trail, which was getting a lot of afternoon sun. The trail was really beautiful and a great start for our holiday weekend in the Finger Lakes. I'd certainly love to return, hopefully next time wearing a swim suit so I can take dip in the pool at the base of the falls after a hike!

First test spot on the walls

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The bridge to cross the falls on the top

Robert H Treman State Park

(117 reviews)

8.1 km

Out of the hikes I've done around Ithaca, Robert H. Treman State Park has been my favorite. The…read moregorge trail and rim trail loop offers beautiful views of the Enfield Glen gorge and waterfalls, especially with the fall foliage. It's moderate difficulty. There is a swim area by the bottom parking area. Both times I've visited this park it was closed due to being off season in October. $10 per car. You can use the receipt to enter any NY state park on the same day.

This was one of my least favorite places to camp because the campsites offer no privacy and have no…read morespace or trees separating you from your neighbors. If you prefer a more intimate and peaceful camping experience, this is not the place for you. There is a swimming area that has a lifeguard on duty snd many waterfalls to see. That being said, the gorge trails are fantastic and worth visiting for day hikes. The hike is not particularly challenging and is a couple miles long. The views of Lucifer falls at the end are awesome!

Instagram: telephonesmoothie

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Cascadilla Gorge Trail

(26 reviews)

1.1 km

Glad I got the chance to check out this check trail. It's been closed since I moved to Ithaca for…read moresome maintenance and just the winter but it's well worth it. You know it starts in the heart of College town right next to the theater in the law school and immediately spectacular fall with the stone arch Bridge. It's gorgeous the Falls continue Cascade down several bends and turns the trail comes right up to the Falls just pouring right next to you as your Spencer Street. There's another arch bridge and the final cascading Falls at the bottom. It was pretty nice. It was. It's kind of picture box by a nice little cherry blossom or I think maybe an apple rose blossom or something but well worth it on this nice spring day to check out now that it's open if you go to Cornell, definitely check it out. It's well worth it and it drops you off right at commons. So if you're taking the street to the commons from college town, considered this and said it's great.

This awesome trail is right in downtown Ithaca. Parking is a little tricky, but there are free…read morespots and park to pay spots. Definitely read the signage! I read some reviews about this trail before going and everything was accurate and amazing. It's a simple enough trail that is just over 1 mile out and back. Dogs are allowed and there are several steps. It's very peaceful and beautiful. There is a waterfall around every corner!

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Majestic Hills Golf Course

(5 reviews)

69.2 km

Super nice course and the owners are so nice. It's my new favorite course and could golf here…read moreeveryday. Well maintained and carts are in great shape!

One of my favorite 8-hole courses. Well maintained, beautiful landscapes and very friendly staff…read more Snacks and drinks available in the lobby, as well. Prices are low, it's well worth the drive to golf here!

Gorgeous vistas from this hilltop course

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Links At Hiawatha Landing

3.5

(4 reviews)

48.1 km

The course has a great challenging layout. I have played it in the past and last week when I played…read moreit I don't think it was in as good a condition. .

Ok just played the back nine on a post-rain storm Friday afternoon. The course was still soggy and…read morethe sand traps were a cruel combination of sand bunker and water hazard. That being said I am definitely going to golf here again in warmer weather. The greens and fairways were impeccable and the course had a nice combo of par 3 to par 5 holes. If this course were in SoCal the greens fees would be over $100!!!