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Step 1
Stop by Ithaca Falls, in the Fall Creek Gorge area of Ithaca. Because the Falls are located right within the city limits, they are a great way to experience the power of nature without having to take a hike or explore backcountry roads. Ithaca Falls is especially impressive in the fall, when high water, combined with the foliage colors of the forest around it, attract lots of photography aficionados.
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Step 2
Drive up NYS route 79 if you’re in a rush or if you want a quick preview of the fall foliage the area has to offer. Route 79 will take you directly to Ithaca Falls, or you can simply turn onto any of the smaller side roads and explore the town on your own.
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Step 3
Plan a walking tour. You can organize one on your own by visiting the official Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau website and downloading one of their self-guided audio tours, which include the Taughannock Falls Gorge Tour and the Buttermilk Tour. The podcasts will guide you through the area and give you a good overview of the foliage and the areas to visit for the best views.
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Step 4
Arrive in mid-October for the best colors. If the previous summer was particularly dry, plan on getting to Ithaca earlier, as the lack of water may make the trees dry up faster. Otherwise, the period between mid-October to Mid-November is the best for vivid bright colors.
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Step 5
Hike the Finger Lakes Trail, which crosses through Ithaca. While the trails are huge (over 500 miles), you can always make up your own routes and decide how far away to stray from the city. The trails are cut directly through the forest and may be one of the best ways to enjoy the foliage from the inside, rather than as a simple spectator.
