Robert H. Treman State Park, located on Enfield Falls Road in Ithaca, New York, is a natural wonderland featuring stunning gorges, cascading waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. This 1,110-acre park offers visitors a chance to explore the beauty of the Finger Lakes region, with its centerpiece being the dramatic Enfield Glen. The park is renowned for its 12 waterfalls, including the 115-foot Lucifer Falls, and provides various recreational activities such as hiking, swimming, and camping.
What Are the Main Attractions at Robert H. Treman State Park?
Robert H. Treman State Park boasts several key attractions that draw visitors from near and far:
- Enfield Glen: A picturesque gorge carved by glaciers and water over millennia.
- Lucifer Falls: A breathtaking 115-foot waterfall, one of the park’s most photographed features.
- Old Mill: A restored 1839 gristmill that now serves as a museum.
- Swimming area: A natural pool at the base of a waterfall, perfect for summer cooling off.
- Hiking trails: Miles of trails offering varying difficulty levels and scenic views.
How Can Visitors Access the Park?
Robert H. Treman State Park is easily accessible via Enfield Falls Road in Ithaca. Here are the key details:
- Address: 105 Enfield Falls Road, Ithaca, NY 14850
- Parking: Available at both the upper and lower entrances
- Entrance fee: A vehicle entrance fee is charged during peak season
What Hiking Trails Are Available in the Park?
The park offers several hiking trails catering to different skill levels:
- Gorge Trail
- Length: 2.12 miles one way
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
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Features: Passes by 12 waterfalls, including Lucifer Falls
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Rim Trail
- Length: 2.09 miles one way
- Difficulty: Strenuous
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Features: Overlooks the gorge and waterfalls
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Red Pine Trail
- Length: 0.79 miles
- Difficulty: Strenuous
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Features: Pine forest and connection to Gorge Trail
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CCC Memorial Trail
- Length: 0.49 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
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Features: Shorter trail with less elevation change
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Finger Lakes Trail/North Country Trail
- Length: 5.15 miles within the park
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Features: Part of a larger trail system connecting multiple parks
What Swimming Opportunities Are Available at Enfield Falls?
Swimming at Robert H. Treman State Park is limited to a designated area:
- Location: Near the Lower Park Entrance
- Safety: Lifeguarded during seasonal hours
- Regulations: Swimming prohibited in the gorge and other parts of Enfield Creek
- Amenities: Changing facilities and restrooms available nearby
What Camping Facilities Does the Park Offer?
Robert H. Treman State Park provides various camping options:
- Number of sites: 72 campsites
- Types: Tent, RV, and cabin options available
- Reservations: Can be made through NY State Parks website or ReserveAmerica.com
- Amenities: Basic facilities including restrooms and fire pits
- Group facilities: Pavilions for events, accommodating 34 to 197 people
What Are the Best Waterfall Hikes in the Park?
- Lucifer Falls via Gorge Trail
- Distance: Approximately 1.8 km (1.1 miles) loop
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Highlights: Views of Lucifer Falls and other cascades
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Gorge and Rim Trail Loop
- Distance: 4.21 miles roundtrip
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Highlights: Panoramic views of the gorge and multiple waterfalls
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Red Pine and Gorge Trail Loop
- Distance: Approximately 2.3 km (1.4 miles)
- Highlights: Scenic gorge views and Lucifer Falls
What Are the Park’s Rules and Regulations?
To ensure safety and preservation of the park, visitors must adhere to the following rules:
- No swimming in the gorge
- Dogs must be kept on a leash
- No use of firearms for deer hunting (bow hunting may be allowed)
- Stay on designated trails
- No removal of natural features or wildlife
- Observe posted safety warnings and closures
Robert H. Treman State Park on Enfield Falls Road in Ithaca offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re hiking through the gorge, swimming beneath a waterfall, or camping under the stars, this park provides a memorable experience in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region.