See the Best Gorge in Ithaca
Discover the Cascadilla Gorge Trail
The Cascadilla Gorge Trail is one of the most remarkable outdoor experiences in the Finger Lakes, offering visitors an unforgettable look at the natural beauty and geological history that define Ithaca. Connecting downtown Ithaca with the Cornell University campus, this scenic trail winds through one of the region’s most iconic Ithaca gorges, where waterfalls, dramatic rock walls, and historic stone staircases create an experience that feels far removed from city life.
Stretching roughly 1.3 miles and climbing nearly 400 feet in elevation, the Cascadilla Gorge Trail follows Cascadilla Creek through layers of shale, sandstone, and siltstone formed more than 400 million years ago. Along the way, visitors encounter six distinct Ithaca waterfalls, each with its own character, from rushing cascades to quieter pools tucked beneath lush vegetation. The trail’s historic stone pathways and staircases, originally constructed between 1928 and 1931, add to the timeless atmosphere that makes this one of the best things to do in Ithaca.
The landscape itself tells the story of the Finger Lakes region. Ancient glacial activity helped carve the steep valleys and fast-flowing streams that shaped the gorge, while ongoing erosion continues to transform the creek bed and surrounding slopes. Visitors who take time to observe the exposed rock faces may even notice fossil evidence from the ancient inland sea that once covered much of New York State.
Places to Stay in the Finger Lakes Near Cascadilla Gorge Trail
After exploring the Cascadilla Gorge Trail and the surrounding Ithaca waterfalls, finding a comfortable place to recharge is essential. Inn at Gothic Eves in nearby Trumansburg offers one of the most refined places to stay in the Finger Lakes, pairing elegant accommodations with thoughtful hospitality and a peaceful setting.
Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, farm-to-table breakfasts prepared with local ingredients, and access to the on-site Finger Lakes Spa, which offers massage, sauna, and wellness services by appointment. Its convenient location also makes it easy to continue exploring the best things to do in the Finger Lakes: wineries, lakeside towns, and waterfalls.
Whether you are planning a weekend outdoors or building a longer Finger Lakes itinerary, the Cascadilla Gorge Trail remains one of the defining experiences in Ithaca. Book your stay and discover why this trail continues to attract nature lovers year after year.