These 3 Scenic Trails Near Ithaca Ny Are Simply Stunning Hikes

Upstate New York is well known for its lush and truly gorgeous forests. Ithaca is surrounded by them and there are three trails sure to bring out the nature lover in you. There’s nothing like being surrounded by trees, birdsong, and the wind through the branches to invigorate and soothe you. Put on your hiking boots and let’s go exploring!

Buttermilk Falls Gorge and Rim Trail Loop is a bucolic trail with soothing streams and is moderately challenging. At 1.6 miles, it takes just about an hour to complete and is also great for camping.

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May through September are ideal for this trail and you’ll find several lovely falls running down the rock walls. It’s an ideal hike that locals love to visit time and time again, as it is just outside of Ithaca.

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Potter’s Falls is just south of Ithaca and is a favorite spot for people to hike and walk their dogs. Lots of waterside walking awaits on this 3.3-mile trail and it’s an absolute treat for the eyes.

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There are multiple falls along the way, as well as this beautiful swimming hole. It’s an excellent way to cool off after a summer hike, whether you simply sit and soak your feet or take a waterfall shower.

Sammy Serrecchio/AllTrails

Just a little way south of Buttermilk Trail above is lake Treman Loop, which is an easy 1.5-mile loop that is loved by birders and hikers. Mycologists will love it as it has a lot of interesting mushrooms and other fungal forms.

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Lake Treman itself is a little wetland lake, part of which is surrounded by scenic rock walls and much of it has reeds teeming with wildlife. Whether you want to exercise, take photos, or simply stroll your worries away, this is the place.

Jim Boyer/AllTrails

There are many more astounding trails in the Ithaca area, but there’s much else to see. The Ithaca Farmers Market is a weekend waterfront market with a ton of fresh produce, crafts, and other goods. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, be sure to attend Wizarding Weekend when the downtown area transforms into a Harry Potter haven! Let us know below your favorite things about the Ithaca area.