The Emilie Jonas Falls Nature Trail is the perfect short, scenic hike for a summer day.

Here at the park, they feature waterfalls with fantastic views that you will not want to miss out on while you are in Ithaca. The park can be a bit hard to find from the road but just look for the small rocky parking lot, from which the trailhead is located right off the road. This way, you are sure to find a parking spot as there isn’t too much traffic on the trail and there is a decent-sized lot.

In the beginning, there is a large set of beautiful stone steps that are easy to make your way up to the beginning of the hike. The hike includes a short, less than a mile (~0.39 mi. one way), a trail that leads up to a gorgeous waterfall at the very end that reaches up to 65 feet high. In all, the hike is very steep with the different elevations in its slippery steps, making it a slower-paced 45-minute walk. You should also keep in mind that the trail can often get very muddy on days after rain or precipitation, and it is best to plan around it to avoid the slippery floor. Fortunately, the trail features plenty of shade so you don’t have to worry about getting too hot in the summer sun. Overall, you are sure to be left mesmerized by the incredible views here of the waterfall and all Ithaca’s natural beauty so the hike is well worth the effort!

*Photos courtesy of https://ithacatrails.org