Hit the Trails at Robert Treman State Park This Year

As a guest at our Boutique Hotel in the Finger Lakes, you’ll be in the ideal location to explore the nearby state parks. Just five minutes away is Taughannock State Park, which is home to one of the most stunning waterfalls in the region.

At Robert Treman State Park, you’ll encounter 12 of these cascading beauties, making it a must-stop on your itinerary. Some previous visitors note that this space is akin to two different parks, with the upper area offering more hiking opportunities and the lower area ideal for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing. Robert Treman State Park is only 20 minutes from our Boutique Finger Lakes Hotel, making it an ideal destination for a quick scenic drive.

For a full list of some of our favorite waterfalls in the region, be sure to explore more of the best Finger Lakes waterfalls nearby. “Waterfalling” has become a popular pastime for visitors!

Here’s what to expect at Robert Treman State Park near Ithaca:

1. Robert Treman State Park encompasses just over 1,100 acres of land in the Finger Lake region near Ithaca. The land was owned by its namesake, who planted over 1,000 trees before donating it to New York State in 1920.
2. Enfield Glen runs through the heart of the park, forming a scenic gorge often considered the highlight of a visit. These dramatic landscapes were shaped by retreating glaciers more than 10,000 years ago. Erosion continues to change the river’s course and the rocky faces of the gorges.
3. There are nine miles of hiking trails throughout Robert Treman State Park, including trails that wind along the bottom of the gorge. As you make your way along the gorge trail, you’ll pass 12 different waterfalls, including the iconic 115-foot-tall Lucifer Falls.
4. Swimming in the stream-fed pools beneath the waterfalls is a popular summer activity. Wade into the clear waters and feel the spray of the lower falls misting through the air. Swimming is allowed only in lifeguarded areas.
5. The surrounding forest of Robert Treman State Park is mostly made up of Hemlocks and other hardwood trees, such as sugar and red maple, yellow and black birch, red oak, white pine, black cherry, and basswood, creating incredible fall foliage.
6. These forests are also excellent for birdwatching, with species like warblers, Eastern Bluebirds, pileated woodpeckers, Scarlet Tanagers, and owls commonly spotted.