Robert Treman State Park, Ithaca

Just a short drive from Buttermilk Falls, Robert H. Treman State Park is one of the most breathtaking natural spots in Tompkins County. Spanning 1,110 acres, the park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, camping, and swimming in a setting of untamed beauty.

Originally acquired in 1915 by Robert H. Treman, who planted over 1,000 trees and worked to preserve the land’s wild charm, the park was officially donated to New York State in 1920. It was initially named Enfield Glen State Park but was later renamed in Treman’s honor after he died in 1937.

The park’s standout attraction is its gorge trail, winding past twelve waterfalls, the most notable being the 115-foot (35 meters) Lucifer Falls and the Lower Falls, which feature a natural swimming hole open in summer. The gorge’s striking Devonian shale and sandstone formations, shaped over thousands of years, add to the park’s dramatic scenery.

For hikers, a 4.5-mile round-trip trek along Enfield Creek offers sweeping views of waterfalls, rugged rock formations, and the cliffs of Enfield Glen. The Finger Lakes Trail also skirts the park’s southern edge, providing additional exploration opportunities.

Beyond hiking, the park offers camping, picnic areas, and playing fields. While the trails close in winter due to hazardous conditions, visitors can enjoy year-round views of Lower Falls. Whether you're trekking through the gorge, cooling off in the stream-fed pool, or admiring the raw beauty of Lucifer Falls, Robert H. Treman State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.