Waterfalls abound in the narrow gorges in and around Ithaca, New York, with some drawing regular crowds while others attracting only hearty falls-seeking sleuths keen on novelty and solitude. Emilie Jonas Falls is a gem for the latter group: it is not the tallest, widest, or most impressive of the bunch – but it is quiet and tucked away in the pretty Gulf Creek drainage mere minutes from Lansing, New York—and just over ten minutes from downtown Ithaca. Here the stream tumbles 65 feet into a gorge behind a residential neighborhood, with the stream emptying into nearby Cayuga Lake. Falls access was facilitated only recently—in 2013—by Lansing Pathways, a voluntary organization based in the area—but this is merely an easement through private property, so please stay on the trail and respect property signs.

The hike

Emilie Jonas Falls was named for the daughter of Czech immigrants who settled in Lansing; the Jonas family went on to develop an initial trail to the base of the falls. Now the revamped Emilie Jonas Falls Trail is set in an unassuming residential area with small farm plots interspersed with large homes. The trailhead is unmarked, but there is a clear gravel pull-off situated off East Shore Circle, which connects to the north-south Route 34 on both sides. (Note: See Google Maps here.)

It is not immediately evident where the trail begins, but a bit of sleuthing reveals a low-cut grassy path leading through a field of high grass and seasonal wildflowers. Follow this path as it edges around a small cluster of reeds and then suddenly darts into the thick woods. Traverse a small, muddy trickle, then emerge at a bend with a large information board. Note the small map of the hike with notations “VERY STEEP” and “VERY SLIPPERY”—perhaps an exaggeration but welcome warnings to take it slow and easy as the trail continues. Be sure also to stay on the trail at all times, as the surrounding lands are private property.

Cut left and begin descending into the Gulf Creek drainage, dropping steadily toward the gently-flowing waters. Soon the residential neighborhood is forgotten, with the sights and sounds of the natural ravine taking over. At about 2/10 mile, the descent ends, and hikers come parallel to the stream as the onward route bends eastward.

Follow the creek up-canyon, with the dull roar of the distant falls quickly growing stronger. The slippery path soon skirts a pool that may be challenging to bypass at high water levels but is usually passed with care on the right side.

Seconds later, visitors get their first look at Emilie Jonas Falls ahead. Here the creek tumbles suddenly over the stony rim, fanning out in two primary strands (which merge at high water levels); from here the landing leads quickly to a second, smaller (6-foot) cascade, which in turn feeds a pool and the quieter creek below.

Once the falls are in sight, the best access is by carefully rock-hopping up the stream, as the trail along the right bank ends at another private property sign. It is possible then to reach the mezzanine level, above the initial cascade and at the base of the primary falls, by skirting the pool on the left. Be very careful as this rock is indeed slippery and the angle sloping sharply down to the chilly pool below.

The upper falls are a majestic sight, descending a set of striated terraces. The pool is very small, with the water quickly moving on to the six-foot cascade. Tucked just out of view, upstream from the falls, is Route 34—and a look back down-canyon reveals a modern home with a direct view of the cataract, reminders that the falls, while delightful, are not entirely “wild” after all.

When ready, return the way you came—returning across the creek and up the steep trail to return to the fields of wildflowers and small parking lot. Allot at least 45 minutes to an hour for the 0.7-mile round-trip journey.