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Waterfalls & Gorges
Waterfalls & Gorges
Ithaca and the surrounding area are rich in waterfalls and dramatic gorges. Most New York State Parks charge a $10 per-day entrance fee, and the same ticket can be used to visit multiple state parks on the same day. We recommend planning ahead to make the most of your visits.
Below you’ll find a curated list of waterfalls and natural sites, along with YouTube preview videos, that we recommend exploring during your stay at ITW.
Taughannock fall
Taughannock fall
One of the most iconic waterfalls in the region, Taughannock Falls plunges 215 ft (65 m) over a high cliff into a deep gorge—making it the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. The state park offers accessible trails to overlooks above and below the falls and stunning views of the Cayuga Lake valley. taughannock.us
📍 Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=Taughannock+Falls+State+Park
Robert Treman State Park
Robert Treman State Park
A scenic state park south of Ithaca featuring a rugged wooded gorge with ~12 waterfalls along Enfield Creek. The signature Lucifer Falls cascades ~115 ft (35 m) into the gorge, and many smaller cascades and pools line the network of trails. Parks & Recreation
📍 Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=Robert+H.+Treman+State+Park
Lucefer fall is located at upper Treman park entry
Lower fall is located at lower entry of Treman state park and is used for swimming
Watkings Glen waterfalls
Watkings Glen waterfalls
19 waterfalls carved into the narrow Glen Creek gorge. A stone-lined trail takes you among cascades, natural bridges, and waterfalls through a dramatic cliff-walled canyon. Wikipedia
Ithaca falls
Ithaca falls
A powerful 150 ft (45 m) curtain-like waterfall just minutes from downtown Ithaca on Fall Creek. It’s easily viewable from bridge overlooks and is popular with visitors for quick scenic stops. Wikipedia
Buttermilk falls & gorges
Buttermilk falls & gorges
A cascading series of waterfalls formed by Buttermilk Creek dropping toward Cayuga Lake. The park’s scenic gorge trail winds beside foamy cascades and offers picnic spots, wooded hikes, and beautiful overlooks. Wikipedia
📍 Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=Buttermilk+Falls+State+Park
Bebe lake
Bebe lake
Beebe Lake on the Cornell University campus is a tranquil reservoir created by damming Fall Creek. While the lake itself isn’t a tall waterfall destination, nearby Hemlock Gorge and Lover’s Falls along Fall Creek offer small cascades and scenic nature trails close to campus. Wikipedia
Seneca Mills falls
Seneca Mills falls
A charming, historic waterfall along the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail with cascade drops near the old mill ruins between Keuka and Seneca Lakes. A gentle hike along the multi-use trail brings you to this scenic spot. NY Falls
Shequaga Falls
Shequaga Falls
A striking 156 ft (47 m) waterfall right in the heart of Montour Falls village, where Shequaga Creek plunges dramatically toward Seneca Lake. It’s easily accessible from the roadside and Village parks.
Hector falls
Hector falls
A roadside waterfall on NY-414 between Watkins Glen and Hector, where water spills near the highway into Seneca Lake. Visible directly from a roadside pull-off—great for quick scenic viewing. NY Falls
Aunt Sarah’s Falls
Aunt Sarah’s Falls
A seasonal roadside waterfall on State Route 414 just north of Montour Falls. Flow varies with rainfall, but when flowing it’s a surprising and beautiful cascade that you can enjoy with minimal walking. Watkins Glen Area
📍 Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=Aunt+Sarah’s+Falls+Montour+Falls
Gorges and Trails
Gorges and Trails
There are numerous places around Ithaca for your exploration. Among famous and accessible ones are the following
Buttermilk Creek drops 600 feet as it plunges through a gorge down the eastern slope of the Cayuga Valley at the southernmost edge of the City of Ithaca.
Black diamond trail a 8.5-mile stone-dust path along the upland slopes of Cayuga Lake makes for an enjoyable family-oriented walk, bike
Cascadilla gorge trail the iconic Cornell Botanic Gardens Cascadilla Gorge Trail connects downtown Ithaca with the Cornell Campus among one of the most picturesque gorges in the Finger Lakes Region and was voted Ithaca’s favorite gorge
The Cayuga Waterfront Trail is an 8 mile trail around inlet of Cayuga Lake which can brings you to Ithaca Farmers Market
If you need to find more information about Ithaca trails just visit its site and find the path you will explore during your stay.
Swimming
Swimming
Swimming in Cayuga Lake
Cayuga Lake, the longest of the Finger Lakes, is known for its clear, cool water and scenic shoreline framed by rolling hills and vineyards. Water quality is generally good for swimming, especially at designated beach and swimming areas that are regularly monitored during the summer season. Because the lake is deep, the water stays refreshingly cool even on hot days—perfect for a mid-summer swim.
Ithaca offers plenty of space for swimming. We recommend the following locations:
Taughannock Falls State Park north point swimming area, this is one of the preferred places locals are swimming since it is near Taughannock waterfall and trail
These spots provide easy lake access, open views, and a relaxed atmosphere. Please follow posted safety notices and check local conditions, as water levels and temperature can vary.
Corning Glass Museum
Corning Glass Museum
The Corning Museum of Glass is one of the most distinctive cultural destinations in upstate New York and the largest museum in the world dedicated to glass. Located about an hour southwest of Ithaca, the museum blends art, science, and history, showcasing how glass has shaped human civilization for more than 3,500 years. Its galleries range from ancient Roman vessels and medieval stained glass to cutting-edge contemporary works, making the experience engaging for both art lovers and curious first-time visitors.
Beyond its permanent collection, the museum is known for its live glassblowing demonstrations, where skilled artists transform molten glass into delicate forms in real time. Visitors can also explore interactive science exhibits that explain the physics and chemistry of glass, optics, and light. For those who want a hands-on experience, the museum offers glassmaking workshops—from simple ornaments to more advanced projects—guided by professional instructors. Rotating exhibitions, artist residencies, and special events ensure there’s always something new to discover, making the Corning Museum of Glass a memorable and inspiring day trip.
Wineries
Wineries
The Finger Lakes region is one of the most celebrated wine destinations in the United States, known for its cool-climate wines, rolling vineyards, and breathtaking lake views. The deep, glacial lakes moderate temperatures year-round, creating ideal conditions for Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Franc, and elegant sparkling wines. Many wineries are family-owned, welcoming visitors for relaxed tastings that often feel personal and unhurried.
Wine tasting in the Finger Lakes is as much about the setting as the wine itself—sunlit tasting rooms overlooking the lakes, scenic drives between vineyards, and knowledgeable winemakers eager to share their craft. Whether you’re a casual wine lover or a dedicated enthusiast, exploring the region’s wineries offers a perfect blend of flavor, landscape, and local culture.
Half-Day Cayuga Lake Wine Route (from Ithaca)
Best window: Late morning to mid-afternoon (perfect before an evening milonga or dinner). Total time: 4-5 hours
Sheldrake Point Winery (≈25 min north of Ithaca)
Sheldrake Point Winery (≈25 min north of Ithaca)
Start with lake views and well-balanced cool-climate wines. Sheldrake Point is known for elegant Rieslings, Pinot Gris, and Cabernet Franc, and the tasting room terrace overlooks Cayuga Lake—an easy, welcoming first stop.
📍 https://maps.google.com/?q=Sheldrake+Point+Winery
Hosmer Winery (5 min drive)
Hosmer Winery (5 min drive)
One of the region’s long-standing wineries, Hosmer offers a wide range of wines from crisp whites to approachable reds. It’s a great place to sample different Finger Lakes styles in one stop.
📍 https://maps.google.com/?q=Hosmer+Winery
Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery (5 min drive)
Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery (5 min drive)
A casual and friendly stop known for dry Rieslings, Cabernet Franc, and ice wines. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a good mid-route pause without feeling rushed.
📍 https://maps.google.com/?q=Cayuga+Ridge+Estate+Winery
Taughannock Wine Bar / Finger Lakes Wine Center (on the way back)
Taughannock Wine Bar / Finger Lakes Wine Center (on the way back)
Finish the route near Taughannock Falls State Park with a curated tasting of Finger Lakes wines from multiple producers. This is a great option if you want variety without another full winery visit—and it pairs nicely with a short walk or scenic overlook.
Boat tours & Kayaking
Boat tours & Kayaking
If you prefer to spend time on a water you may consider the following options
Paddle-N-More – Kayak and paddle board rentals. They reside on Cauyga lake inlet and very easy to access from downtown. A 1 hour rental can bring you to the lake and back through inlet.
Cayuga Lake Cruises offers multiple cruise options for you to enjoy your time on a boat around Cayuga lake.
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