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Parks

Fillmore Glen State Park

4.6 · 1,192 reviews
Quiet and ruggedly natural
Fillmore Glen State Park, 1686 NY-38, Moravia, NY 13118, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park contains a recreation of the log cabin where Millard Fillmore was born in 1800.

2

The park's swimming pool is fed by the natural spring water flowing through the gorge.

3

The gorge creates a micro-climate that remains significantly cooler than the surrounding open fields, often leading to distinct flora growth.

4

The gorge was carved by post-glacial streams cutting through layers of Devonian-age shale.

5

There are distinct rock strata visible along the gorge walls that contain fossil remains from the Devonian period.

Overview

Fillmore Glen State Park is defined by its deep limestone gorge featuring five distinct waterfalls and a unique natural stone swimming pool. The park is named after the birthplace of the 13th U.S. President, Millard Fillmore, whose former cabin site is located within the park grounds. The Gorge Trail, approximately 1 mile in length, provides access to the cascades and vertical rock formations. The park encompasses 952 acres of woodland and includes both tent and trailer campsites. Visitors can access a series of staircases and wooden walkways that navigate the steep terrain of the gorge. The site is a key feature of the Finger Lakes region, located just outside the village of Moravia. The gorge itself is characterized by shale and limestone layers, reflecting millions of years of geological history.

Photo spot

The wooden footbridge spanning the gorge, offering a framed view of the primary waterfall.

Insider tips

Wear footwear with high-traction soles as the gorge trails can remain slippery due to constant moisture.

Bring bug spray, as the humid, shaded environment of the gorge is an ideal habitat for mosquitoes and gnats.

Check local trail conditions before arriving, as high rainfall can lead to temporary closures of the Gorge Trail for safety reasons.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb or scramble off-trail on the gorge walls, which is dangerous and causes significant environmental damage.

Good to know

Campsites and major facilities typically operate from May through mid-October; the gorge trail may close during winter due to ice hazards.

Etiquette

Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion of the fragile shale walls and protect the local ecosystem.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-4 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in the spring or early autumn to avoid crowds and maximize the water flow over the falls.
Address
Fillmore Glen State Park, 1686 NY-38, Moravia, NY 13118, United States
42.692, -76.390
Get directions
Details
Trail FeaturesLimestone gorge with five waterfalls and natural stone pool
Amenities952 acres with tent and trailer campsites

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in the spring or early autumn to avoid crowds and maximize the water flow over the falls..

The wooden footbridge spanning the gorge, offering a framed view of the primary waterfall.

Close by you'll find Taughannock Falls State Park, Bear Swamp State Forest, Yaman Park.