Explore the New York Finger Lakes Trail: A Scenic Journey from Downtown Ithaca to Cornell Campus with Stunning Waterfall Views

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Explore the New York Finger Lakes Trail: A Scenic Journey from Downtown Ithaca to Cornell Campus with Stunning Waterfall Views

The Cascadilla Gorge Trail, located in New York’s charming college city of Ithaca, is definitely a captivating journey taking hikers through one of the Finger Lakes region’s most picturesque landscapes. Measuring little more than a mile long, the trail connects downtown Ithaca to the Cornell University campus. It also guides hikers along Cascadilla Creek through beautiful, forested areas and stunning waterfalls. The hour-long walk along this path also showcases historic stone staircases and bridges that enhance the gorge’s natural beauty.



The Cascadilla Gorge lower trailhead can be accessed through the Treman Triangle Park on Linn Street. The upper entrance of the trail, however, is located near the Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts on College Avenue — just 10 minutes from downtown Ithaca. It is important to note that the lower section of the trail is typically closed during the winter months. And because of the creek’s unpredictable currents, swimming is not allowed.

If you are set on hiking this gorgeous path, then the closest major airport is Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH) 12 minutes away from the city center. For train travelers, the nearest Amtrak station is in Syracuse, a truly affordable food and art vacation paradise, about one hour north of Ithaca. Additionally, you can also drive to Ithaca, as State Route 13 passes through the city.



Hiking the Cascadilla Gorge Trail

The Cascadilla Gorge Trail with its many stone stairs

The Cascadilla Gorge Trail is the perfect place for connecting with nature and enjoying a calm walk along its 1920s stone trails. The ​​picturesque waterfalls and diverse plant-life along the trail will blow your mind, while the hardwood and pine forests create many landscape and nature photography opportunities. And who knows? With such rich wooded areas you might also find it a great place for birdwatching.

The eight waterfalls at this gorge are the stars of the show, though. These vary in sizes and height, all crashing into the Cascadilla Creek’s dramatic bedrock landscapes. The trail actually follows the creek, leading to a couple of stone footbridges. According to visitors on Tripadvisor, however, you will find plenty of stairs along this hike. As such, biking is not allowed at the gorge. Finally, visitors should follow the Gorge regulations — like staying on the marked trails at all times — when coming to this natural corridor to avoid any accidents.

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Other places to enjoy near the Cascadilla Gorge Trail

Ithaca Falls hiking area

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.