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Parks #2 in Ithaca, New York

Robert H. Treman State Park

4.8 · 4,187 reviews
Rugged and naturalistic
Robert H. Treman State Park, 105 Enfield Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park was formed through a donation of land by Robert and Laura Treman in 1920.

2

The Lower Falls swimming area is seasonally lifeguarded and features a concrete-lined pool floor.

3

The gorge was formed by glacial retreat and subsequent erosion by Enfield Creek through sedimentary rock layers.

4

Lucifer Falls, the park's centerpiece waterfall, features a 115-foot vertical drop.

5

The park contains remnants of salt mining and milling operations from the 19th century.

6

The Gorge Trail contains over 500 stone steps built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

Overview

Robert H. Treman State Park is distinguished by the rugged Enfield Glen, a deep gorge carved by Enfield Creek containing twelve waterfalls. The park features the iconic Lower Falls, a natural swimming hole situated at the base of a cascading waterfall. Hikers can access the Gorge Trail, which follows the creek closely and passes beneath several rock overhangs and formations. The Rim Trail provides an alternative route, offering elevated views looking down into the gorge. The park contains a historic grist mill, known as the Old Mill, dating back to 1839. Stone staircases are integrated into the gorge walls to facilitate traversing the steep terrain. The park is managed by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. It encompasses over 1,000 acres of forested landscape in the Finger Lakes region.

Photo spot

The stone bridge viewpoint overlooking the crest of Lucifer Falls.

Insider tips

Wear footwear with high-traction soles as the gorge trails are frequently wet and slippery.

The swimming area reaches capacity early on summer weekends; arrive shortly after opening.

Carry a physical map or download offline files as cell service is inconsistent within the deep gorge.

What to avoid

Attempting the full gorge loop if you have mobility issues, as the stone stairs are steep and strenuous; do not swim in the gorge outside the Lower Falls area.

Good to know

The Gorge Trail is typically closed during winter months due to ice and hazardous rockfall conditions.

Etiquette

Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion; swimming is strictly permitted only in the designated life-guarded area.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 hours
Best time to visit
Early autumn for foliage or weekday mornings in summer to avoid swimming hole crowds.
Address
Robert H. Treman State Park, 105 Enfield Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
42.399, -76.570
Get directions
Details
Terrain typeRugged gorge and forested highlands
Key featuresNatural swimming pool and historic grist mill

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early autumn for foliage or weekday mornings in summer to avoid swimming hole crowds..

The stone bridge viewpoint overlooking the crest of Lucifer Falls.

Close by you'll find Buttermilk Falls State Park, Sciencenter, Stewart Park.