Check Out These Family-Friendly Hiking Trails in Ithaca

Ithaca and the areas surrounding it, are home to several picturesque locations that contain forests, waterfalls and delightful, family-friendly hiking trails. 

The following five trails across and around Ithaca are among the best trails for families to enjoy. Our selections are based on reviews, local recommendations and expert opinions from sources like Visit Ithaca NY and AllTrails.

Wilson Trail

The Wilson Trail, located in the Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary, which is part of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, is a short, safe and manageable trail for small children. The trail, which passes by a variety of ecosystems, is frequented by birdwatchers and researchers from Cornell. The sanctuary is dedicated to preserving the area’s beautiful wildlife, making it a fun, interesting and educational environment for all ages.

Cascadilla Gorge Trail

The Cascadilla Gorge Trail is a fantastic place to hike if you love waterfalls, as the trail passes by nine of them, including the beautiful Cascadilla Falls. The short trail winds from the Cornell University campus to downtown Ithaca, making it safe and easy to navigate. The gorge itself drops down 400 feet, making it easy to see the sedimentary rock layers, which are millions of years old.

Gorge Trail

The Gorge Trail at Taughannock Fall State Park is relatively short and easy. It’s also very accessible, making it safe for families with children as well as hikers who use mobility devices. Part of the trail takes hikers along the Taughannock Creek to an excellent view of the beautiful and towering Taughannock Falls.

Lake Treman Loop via Gorge, Bear and Rim Trail

The Buttermilk Falls State Park trail loop to Lake Treman is composed of the connecting Gorge, Bear and Rim Trails. While the Gorge, Rim and Bear Trails are short, they are more challenging, which might appeal to older kids. For families with very small children, it is better to take the longer but easier Lake Treman Trail. Regardless of the exact route, passing by the Buttermilk Creek and hiking to the lake is still worth it.

Rim Trail and Gorge Trail Loop

Located just outside of Ithaca, the Rim and Gorge Trails form a loop that offers great views of several waterfalls, including the Lower Falls and Lucifer Falls, making Robert H. Treman State Park a great place for swimming. While the loop is a bit more challenging than other trails in some places, due to its total length and the number of stairs, it is still safe and doable for families. The trail is especially popular in the summertime. 

Safety Tips for Family Hikes

To stay safe while hiking as a family, follow these tips:

1. Follow the rules and signs: Parks have rules that they keep posted on signs throughout the trails. Make sure to abide by those rules. Stay on safe and clearly-marked paths, and follow the directions on the signs. Only hike when the trails are open to the public, as they can be dangerous during the winter or in bad weather. Gorges often drop hundreds of feet, so keep a safe distance from the edges by respecting the guard rails. 

2. Choose safe and accessible trails: Not every trail is marked, paved or accessible for baby strollers or mobility aids. Make sure to choose trails with child-friendly terrain and ample safety precautions.

3. Take it easy: Some trails can be more challenging for some than others, depending on the hiker’s age and abilities. Choose how far to go along the trail, give yourself time to get back to your vehicle and make sure to respect your group’s energy level to avoid overexertion.

4. Bring the essentials: Make sure to bring snacks and water to stay healthy while hiking. Dress for the weather and wear sunscreen. Bring a navigation device, first aid kit and any other hiking supplies you might need.

5. Respect the space: Be sure to keep the trail as clean as possible. Pick up after yourself and leave the trail nicer than you found it. Be respectful to other hikers and leave the wildlife alone.