Cascadilla Gorge Trail

Hike past 9 different waterfalls in a beautiful gorge.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
2.8 km
Ascent
120 m
Descent
120 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
124 m
High Point
233 m
Gradient
Cascadilla Gorge Trail Map

Ithaca is renowned for its beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails, with the most popular found in Cascadilla Creek Gorge. The most famous of the falls is Cascadilla Falls itself, which consists of "20 feet of multiple cascading falls," according to VisitIthaca.com.

Description

However, the gorge is actually home to 9 different waterfalls, with the tallest measuring 80 feet high! "The creek falls nearly 400 feet from the College Avenue Stone Arch Bridge on the Cornell campus to the Treman Triangle Park in Ithaca," according to GoFingerLakes.com.

While the lower gorge is the most dramatic portion of this hike, adding in some bonus mileage higher up will give you a better feel for the area and an appreciation of Ithaca's incredible natural beauty.

The hike itself is fairly easy to negotiate, with a well-maintained trail surface. However, do be prepared to climb several sections of rough-hewn stone staircases with short but steep pitches. Many sections of this trail will be slippery when wet, so come prepared for some sketchy footing.

Despite some moderate challenges, this hike is a must-do for anyone visiting Ithaca!

Sources: https://www.visitithaca.com/listing/cascadilla-creek-gorge/3219/ https://nyfalls.com/waterfalls/cascadilla-gorge/ https://www.gofingerlakes.org/locations/cascadilla-gorge-trail/

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between April and November

Features

  • Picturesque
  • Water features
  • Family friendly