Trail Alerts // Check for the latest trail alerts before you go. See All Trail Alerts

Fall Creek Gorge Natural Area

Difficulty // Easy, Moderate, Difficult
Activities // Hiking
Distance // 1.0 miles
Features // Scenic vistas, Waterfalls & Gorges, Unique wildlife viewing, Dog-friendly (on leash)
Route Type // Out and Back
Estimated hiking time // 24 mins
Open year-round.
Hunting not allowed.
Surface types // Gravel / Stone Dust, Pavement
Trail markers // orange blaze, none, red blaze

Trails in Cornell Botanic Gardens Fall Creek Gorge Natural Area provide access to one of Cornell’s iconic gorges. The Risley Trail leads to a picnic area at creek level on the north side of the gorge and the Horseshoe Falls Trail leads to an overlook in view of the 30-foot high Horseshoe Falls on the south side. The pedestrian suspension bridge provides a bird’s eye view of Fall Creek flowing over the gorge’s sculpted rock ledges and streambed. With a depth of nearly 200 feet, Fall Creek Gorge is among the most impressive gorges in the Finger Lakes Region. Orientation maps are located at four entry points and interpretive signs are found in four scenic destinations highlighting the gorge’s geologic, natural and cultural history. Trails here connect with the Cayuga Trail, and trails within the Botanic Garden area, the F. R. Newman Arboretum, Cornell Campus, and adjoining natural areas links needed.

Portions of this trail system are also included in the Cayuga Trail system.

This trail is part of the Cayuga Trail.

White hiking boot on a brown circular background, symbolizing hiking or walking trails.
Hiking
White standard bicycle on a light blue circular background, denoting cycling or bike trails.
Biking
White electric bicycle with a lightning bolt above it on a green circular background, representing e-bike use.
e-Biking
White outline of a horseshoe centered on a gold circular background, symbolizing horseback riding.
Horse
White icon of a person running with motion lines on a dark blue circular background, symbolizing physical activity or trail use.
running
White icon of a kayak with a double-bladed paddle on a brown circular background, representing paddling or kayaking.
Paddling
White crossed skis and ski poles on a light blue circular background, indicating winter sports or skiing.
Skiing
White outline of two crisscrossed snowshoes on a green circular background, representing snowshoeing activity.
Snowshoe
Distance // 0 Miles
Difficulty // Easy

    Parking Locations

    Fall Creek Gorge Trail – North Sidewalk
    Get Directions

    Bus Stops

    • Milstein Hall - Get Directions

      Go 500 ft west on University Ave, descend stairs heading down into the gorge, and turn left on Cayuga Trail.

    • Thurston at Balch Hall - Get Directions

      Risley Trail: On west side of Thurston Ave, follow paths around to the back (SW) side of Risley Hall to trailhead.

    Fall Creek Gorge Trail – North Sidewalk
    Get Directions

    • Milstein Hall - Get Directions

      Go 500 ft west on University Ave, descend stairs heading down into the gorge, and turn left on Cayuga Trail.

    • Thurston at Balch Hall - Get Directions

      Risley Trail: On west side of Thurston Ave, follow paths around to the back (SW) side of Risley Hall to trailhead.

    Trails. Views. Adventure. Ithaca.

    Report a Problem

    Send Us Your Photos

    Current Trail Alerts

    Good news! There are no trail alerts right now.