If it were merely a single strand of the massive, 150-foot-tall falls that was flowing, this would still be an impressive sight. And yet we get much more with Ithaca Falls, easily the tallest, widest, and arguably most stunning of the many waterfalls inside the city of limits of Ithaca, New York. Here the water cascades over the lip of the sedimentary bedrock with force reminiscent of mighty Niagara Falls, emptying into a massive pool set in beautiful Fall Creek Gorge. Because of easy access—just a 1/10 mile walk one-way—the Ithaca Falls Trail is one of the most popular jaunts in the area; while unlikely to have the place to yourself, this is a treat and must-see while in Ithaca.

The hike

To access the falls, park along the road or in the parking lot at the corner of East Falls Street and Lake Street in northern Ithaca, just west of Cornell University. Plan to cross Lake Street and check out the bridge over Fall Creek, where one gets a first glimpse at the falls upstream. Informative waysides offer details on the history of the area, and a map suggests an additional route that continues to three other waterfalls in Fall Creek Gorge.

While largely returned to its natural state today, this section of the gorge once looked rather different, with several industrial mills and factories drawing power from the raging waters. The most prominent business at Fall Creek was the Ithaca Gun Company, which operated from 1880 until 1987, with the factory buildings removed only as recently as 2010. (Note: There are remains of a brick structure found off to the right as one starts down the Ithaca Falls Trail.)

Working your way back to the south side of the creek, follow the gravelly track down to creek level; a quick diversion left offers access to the shoreline. The main trail, thinner now, continues eastward through a shady corridor, flanked by striated walls on the right.

Soon the path emerges back into the sun, culminating at a stony landing where Ithaca Falls is on full display. Expect the greatest flow in spring or after heavy rains, with Fall Creek dropping a level to the large pool some 150 feet below. The beauty of such a powerful fall, so close to town, feels rather surreal, matched perhaps only by Hamilton, Ontario, the so-called “City of Waterfalls.” (Note: See an interesting collection of “urban waterfalls” here.)

The giant pool and steep canyon sides tend to prevent passage to the very base of the falls, but the views of the extraordinary plunge are tremendous from the creek shores at the end of the 1/10-mile hike. When ready, return the way you came, back up the short hill to the trailhead and parking area.