Take a Hike to Finger Lakes Waterfalls
Discover Robert Treman State Park: A Finger Lakes Gem
Few places capture the wild beauty of the Finger Lakes quite like Robert Treman State Park. Just outside Ithaca, this stunning park invites you into a world of cascading waterfalls, ancient gorges, and lush forested trails. At the heart of the park flows Enfield Glen, a breathtaking stream that winds through layers of sculpted rock, revealing the region’s raw geological story with every twist and turn. It’s the kind of scenery that feels almost too beautiful to be real.
With approximately nine miles of trails ranging from leisurely walks to more challenging climbs, there’s something here for every type of explorer. The crown jewel is the Gorge Trail, a spectacular route that winds alongside the water past 12 distinct waterfalls. The showstopper? Lucifer Falls, a magnificent 115-foot plunge that commands attention and rewards every step of the hike to reach it. And Robert Treman is just the beginning: the surrounding Finger Lakes region is dotted with other stunning waterfalls waiting to be discovered nearby.
The park’s upper and lower sections offer two distinct flavors of adventure. Head upward for more rugged, elevation-gaining trails with sweeping views, or settle into the lower park’s inviting swimming holes and shaded picnic areas, perfect for a lazy afternoon with family or friends.
Throughout the seasons, the surrounding hemlock and hardwood forests transform the landscape into something entirely new: vibrant greens in summer, fiery colors in fall, and a peaceful stillness in the colder months. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to love, with a wide variety of species making their home among the trees year-round.
Where to Stay: Make the Most of Your Finger Lakes Escape
A park this beautiful deserves an equally memorable place to rest your head. Just 20 minutes from Robert Treman, the Inn at Gothic Eves offers a luxurious boutique retreat that feels like a world apart. Far from your average lodging property, this charming Boutique Finger Lakes Hotel is designed for those who want to slow down and get away from it all.
After a day on the trails, soak your cares away in the outdoor hot tub, indulge in a massage at their on-site spa, and sink into spacious, beautifully appointed guest rooms. Each morning, a thoughtfully prepared multi-course breakfast, crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, sets the perfect tone before you head back out to explore. With easy access to the best things to do in the Finger Lakes from Ithaca’s state parks to acclaimed local wineries and fantastic dining, the Inn at Gothic Eves isn’t just a place to stay in the Finger Lakes, it’s a destination in its own right.