Beebe Lake Natural Area
Total distance: 1.84 miles
Difficulty level(s): easy, moderate, difficult
Visitors can explore Cornell Botanic Gardens Beebe Lake Natural Area on the one-mile loop trail around this man-made lake in the heart of Cornell campus. The scenic trail passes through mature and old-growth forests, over the historic Sackett Bridge, and past many lake views and stone seating areas that include picturesque views across the lake and the falls over Beebe Dam into Fall Creek Gorge from the Triphammer Footbridge. These trails are also a favorite for joggers, hikers or a simple stroll. A shorter loop trail from Sackett's Bridge leads to a picnic area overlooking a waterfall tucked away in Hemlock Gorge. While hiking the trail, visitors may take an interpretive guided tour using your smart phone by downloading "Pocketsights Tour Guide" from the App Store or Google Play Store. Trails here also connect with the Cayuga Trail, and trails within the Botanic Garden area, the Mundy Wildflower Garden, Cornell Campus, and additional, adjoining natural areas.
Portions of this trail system are also included in the Cayuga Trail system.
Trailhead GPS Coordinates
Latitude: 42.44889832
Longitude: -76.47290039
Parking Locations
- Parking Lot : 1 Plantations Rd.
Bus Stops
Dairy Bar
Directions to Trailhead from Outbound Bus Stop
On north side of Tower Rd, take path to left (west) for 600 ft, then right on path leading to Nevins Welcome Center parking area and intersection with Cayuga Trail. Head NW to Beebe Lake trails.
Milstein Hall
Directions to Trailhead from Outbound Bus Stop
Go east on University Ave; at intersection, continue straight on Forest Home Dr for 300 ft to Cayuga Trail angling off on left.
Thurston at Balch Hall
Directions to Trailhead from Outbound Bus Stop
Go SE on paths for 200 ft, cross Cradit Farm Dr, and continue on paths to Beebe Lake trails.
Trail Attributes
- Good for Hiking
- Good for Running
- Good for Snowshoeing
- Lakes visible
- Scenic Vistas
- Unique Wildlife Viewing
- Picnicking allowed
- Restrooms available
More Info
Part of interconnected trail system: No
Trail Surface: Earth, Gravel/Stone Dust, Pavement
Trail Markers: orange blaze, none
This trail contains a loop.
Use of firearms for deer hunting is not allowed. Bow hunting may be allowed. BE SAFE: See the specific trail owner/steward’s website for the most up to date details
This trail is open year round.
Visit the Trail Owners/Stewards
http://www.cornellbotanicgardens.org/our-gardens/natural-areas/beebe