On the Grid : Cascadilla Gorge Trail

"The Civilian Conservation Corps were very busy in the Finger Lakes area in the 1930's, dedicating time and energy to creating access to the stunning gorges and waterfalls throughout the region. The Cascadilla (cas-ca-dil-la) Gorge trail is another of the Corps masterworks. Linking downtown Ithaca to the Cornell campus 400 feet above, the trail hugs the gorge walls alongside the creek, removing you from all aspects of city life, aside from other pedestrians using the trail to traverse town. The Corps built beautiful stone steps to ascend the waterfalls and bridges for crossing the creek when necessary. This stunning bit of tamed wilderness is maintained by Cornell Plantations and only accessible after all the ice has melted. And not to be missed -- the annual 4H Duck Race -- a fundraiser where thousands of yellow rubber ducks are released down the falls. A must see in Ithaca!" - St. John Design Group