Anyone driving through our local area has likely encountered the iconic catchphrase that defines our town: Ithaca is Gorges. It is a charming nod to the stunning geological formations and the breathtaking cascades that surround us. This summer, we invite you to plan a getaway to our scenic corner of the Finger Lakes and explore the best waterfalls in Ithaca. Reserve your stay at La Tourelle Inn & Spa to find relief from the heat at waterfalls featuring natural swimming areas. The highlight? Your journey to the falls begins the moment you step outside our doors!
Buttermilk Falls
Access the Buttermilk Falls trailhead right from La Tourelle! Follow the creek up through old-growth forest and climb stone steps as the gorge walls rise around you. Arrive at the 500-foot waterfall and enjoy the cool breeze coming off the fall as it cascades down to the natural swimming pool at the base. Go swimming in the cool water, relax on the smooth rocks, and enjoy the sound of rushing water echoing through the gorge.
Lifeguards are typically on duty seasonally from late June through Labor Day.
Enfield Falls (Lower Falls)
Make the short drive to upper Robert Treman State Park and take the easy half-mile paved loop trail down to Enfield Falls. Feel the mist on your face as you approach the falls and wade into the cool, clear water at the base. Dive into the deep water, splash around, dry off on the rocks, and take in the lush gorge scenery. If you still have energy to burn, continue along the trail to discover the breathtaking Lucifer Falls cascade.
Lifeguards are here daily from 11 am to 7 pm, late June through Labor Day weekend.
Taughannock Falls
Drive out to Taughannock Falls State Park and hike the gorge trail along Taughannock Creek, staying cool beneath the shade of towering cliff walls. Stand at the base and look up at 215 feet of cascading water, the tallest waterfall in the entire region. Soak in the views, explore the rim trail for a birds-eye perspective from above, and then head down to the shores of Cayuga Lake for a swim to finish off the perfect summer day.
While swimming is not permitted at the base of the waterfall, visitors can enjoy monitored swimming at South Point on Cayuga Lake.
Relax at Our Ithaca Inn After Chasing Waterfalls
After a full day of hiking, swimming, and exploring some of the best waterfalls Ithaca has to offer, La Tourelle is the perfect place to slow down and unwind. Enjoy a seasonal meal at the La Tourelle Lounge, settle in for live music, or take time to rest with a treatment at August Moon Spa. For those looking to deepen their connection to the landscape, guests can also join curated experiences like our Guided Forest Bathing Waterfall Hike.
However you spend your days exploring the Finger Lakes, La Tourelle offers a peaceful place to return to, where nature, comfort, and relaxation come together!