As the fall season settles over the Finger Lakes, the region's waterfalls and rocky gorges light up with color, making it the perfect time to explore them on foot. Discover the best places to hike in Ithaca this fall and spend your days enjoying the cool weather, crisp leaves, and natural beauty of the Finger Lakes just moments from your lodging at La Tourelle Inn & Spa. Hike past some of the best views in the region, all framed by vibrant shades of yellow, oranges, and red. Settle into our 15-acre grounds and immerse yourself in nature without leaving the property grounds. After a day on the trails, return to the inn for live music and s'mores at Firelight Camps, revitalizing treatments at the spa, and seasonal craft cocktails at the lounge.
When to See Fall Colors in Ithaca, New York
Ithaca is blessed with one of the longest fall foliage seasons in New York, thanks to the region’s diverse terrain and the climate-moderating effects of Cayuga Lake. Colors start transitioning by early September, peak around mid-October, and last through early November. Check the Ithaca fall foliage report to see when colors will peak this season.
Places to Hike During the Fall
Buttermilk Falls State Park
One of the best parts of staying at La Tourelle is the direct access to Buttermilk Falls State Park. Pick up the trailhead from the resort and explore several hiking trails that take you through woodlands, gorge views, scenic vistas, and cascading waterfalls, all backdropped by fall colors.
Robert Treman State Park
Robert Treman State Park is another favorite for waterfall lovers. Hike nine miles of trails featuring over a dozen waterfalls, dramatic gorges and quiet wooded stretches that light up in autumn.
Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls State Park is one of the most photographed areas in the fall. The scenery surrounding the 215-foot falls is breathtaking, with reds, yellows and oranges lining the gorge on every side.
Black Diamond Trail
The Black Diamond Trail is a great option for families or anyone looking for an easy stroll. The 8-mile path follows an old railroad line past Cayuga Lake views, farmland and waterfalls, shaded by maple, hemlock, oak and hickory that are especially beautiful this time of year.
Sapsucker Woods
Sapsucker Woods is a lovely nature sanctuary managed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Free and open to the public, it's a peaceful place to hike and watch birds, with trails leading past ponds, wetlands and vivid fall color.
Cascadilla Gorge Trail
The Cascadilla Gorge Trail connects downtown Ithaca with the Cornell campus. Pick up the path at several points in town and follow its stone stairways past six waterfalls tucked into the gorge.
More Ways to Experience Fall in Ithaca
Cruise Cayuga Lake
Climb aboard a Fall Foliage Eco-Cruise with Discover Cayuga Lake and sit back as your narrator shares the history and ecology of the lake while the shoreline drifts past in brilliant autumn color. If you would rather explore at your own pace, rent a kayak or canoe and launch from Stewart Park to paddle the shoreline yourself.
Sip and Savor the Region
Fall is harvest season in the Finger Lakes, and there is no shortage of ways to taste it. Follow the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, sip small-batch cider at South Hill Cider, find fresh local produce at the Ithaca Farmers Market, and experience classic fall fun at Moore Family Farm.
Attend Seasonal Events
Get into the Halloween spirit with one of Ithaca's spooky walking tours, from a downtown ghost tour to a lantern-lit stroll through the historic Ithaca City Cemetery. If you are visiting in early fall, catch the Apple Harvest Festival on the Ithaca Commons.
Plan Your Fall Getaway in Ithaca, New York
When you stay at La Tourelle Inn & Spa, all of these activities sit within a short drive of our Ithaca resort. And the best part of the day is coming home to a warm fireplace, a soothing massage at August Moon Spa and a glass of Finger Lakes wine. Book your fall escape and discover the best places to hike in Ithaca near the inn.