Trail Alerts // Hunting seasons have opened in parts of Tompkins County.
Wear blaze orange in areas where hunting is allowed. Check for the latest trail alerts before you go. See All Trail Alerts
Leaf Brown

Cascadilla Gorge Trail

First Time? Start Here!

If you’re new to Ithaca, the Cascadilla Gorge Trail is the perfect way to experience the city’s natural beauty and get a taste of Cornell.

Start with a sandwich or smoothie from Collegetown Bagels, then head into the gorge just a few steps away. The trail winds up through a dramatic series of waterfalls and stone steps, leading you right into Cornell University’s stunning campus.

On your way back down, walk along Cornell Avenue for a quieter route, and don’t miss Llenroc, the historic Gothic mansion built by Cornell’s founder.

It’s a short, unforgettable walk that packs in waterfalls, architecture, and one very tasty bagel.

Tiered waterfall flows over dark rocks, surrounded by dense green trees and sunlight, with fallen logs by the water’s edge.
1.3
Miles

Cascadilla Gorge Natural Area

Difficulty
Moderate
Features
Scenic vistas, Waterfalls & Gorges, Unique wildlife viewing, Dog-friendly (on leash), Bus Stop Nearby

Current Trail Alerts

Roy H. Park Preserve

  • The north entrance to the Roy H. Park Preserve and the boardwalk will be closed to the public from Monday, July 7, through September 2025 as work is underway to install an ADA-accessible path. The south entrance will remain open during this time. Thank you for your patience.

Fall Creek Gorge Natural Area

  • The section of trail in Fall Creek Gorge west of the suspension bridge to Chi Psi is unstable and closed until further notice.

Cascadilla Gorge Natural Area

  • A portion of the Cascadilla Gorge Trail between Stewart Avenue and College Avenue is closed for construction and will reopen in spring, 2026. The trail between Linn Street (Treman Triangle) up to the Stewart Avenue Bridge is now open.

Beebe Lake Natural Area

  • Hemlock Gorge trail upstream of Sackett Bridge is closed.