Ithaca New York

A Waterfall Wonderland with Trails and Tranquility

Ithaca is a stunning retreat for nature lovers, highlighted by more than 150 waterfalls in the region, rolling hills and ancient glaciers carved from the last ice age. Enjoy a trip to Taughannock Falls, known as Ithaca’s crown jewel, the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. Situated within Taughannock Falls State Park, this impressive 65-meter cascade attracts visitors year-round, especially in early summer and late fall when the surrounding foliage bursts with color.

The region's most powerful waterfall is just a short walk from downtown Ithaca, which makes it ideal for a quick nature getaway. Ithaca Falls, known for its impressive 53-meter width, is particularly mesmerizing in the spring as the winter melt creates gushing torrents. Travel southwest of Ithaca to explore Robert Treman State Park, a natural oasis with well-maintained hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Its winding paths weave through diverse landscapes that are perfect for picnicking, birdwatching, and winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Be sure to visit Lucifer Falls, a popular park highlight recognized for its 30-meter plunge into a rugged gorge and tiered staircases surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation.

Other Outdoor Odysseys

Outdoor enthusiasts can dive into further adventures at Cayuga Lake and the Cascadilla Gorge Trail. As the longest of the New York Finger Lakes, Cayuga Lake provides ample opportunities for water activities, including swimming, kayaking along its serene shores and fishing for local trout. From April through December, the Ithaca Farmers Market offers a delightful selection of baked goods, fresh produce, meats, cheeses and more, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Cayuga Lake waterfront. For a journey well worth your time, spend a few hours driving along the Cayuga Scenic Byway to savor the essence of the Finger Lakes region, exploring charming towns and cultural attractions like Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Just a short distance away from downtown Ithaca, the Cascadilla Gorge Trail offers a seamless transition from the city into the heart of nature. The trail's gentle elevation changes beckon hikers from May to October, connecting downtown to Cornell University’s campus with a meandering path featuring towering rock formations and enchanting waterfalls.

Where Culture Meets Contemplation

In Tompkins County, art, nature and education merge to form an environment ripe for exploration and reflection. At the forefront stands Cornell University, a hub of intellectual curiosity. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology invites avian enthusiasts to observe and understand birds in its Discovery Lab and join expert-led bird-watching tours, while the Cornell Botanical Gardens showcases beautifully themed gardens highlighting native plant species. After exploring the vibrant campus of Cornell University, take a quick trip over to the Museum of the Earth to journey through the planet's fascinating history. This interactive museum features life-sized dinosaur replicas, ancient fossils and engaging displays that illustrate the evolution of Earth's ecosystems over millions of years. Embark on a quest for harmony at the Great 14th Dalai Lama Library and Learning Center at Namgyal Monastery, a peaceful refuge dedicated to preserving Buddhist teachings and encouraging interfaith understanding.