Triphammer Falls
New York • 55 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Triphammer Falls
Triphammer Falls is a 55-foot waterfall on Fall Creek tucked into the heart of the Cornell University campus in Ithaca, New York. The falls tumble through a narrow gorge in a multi-tiered cascade that feels surprisingly wild despite its central campus location, and several pedestrian bridges and viewpoints make it easy to enjoy dramatic close-up vistas. The site is on university land and is a popular, year-round stop for students, visitors, and photographers exploring the Cascadilla and Fall Creek gorges. The most commonly used approach is an out-and-back campus hike of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation change; the route is rated moderate and is friendly to most hikers who are comfortable with an urban-gorge walk. For a quick comparison to other Finger Lakes-area streams, Conesus Creek (the outflow of Conesus Lake) drops more than 200 feet over its short course, while Triphammer’s dramatic 55-foot drop is concentrated within the Fall Creek gorge on campus.
The Setting
Triphammer Falls sits at 702 feet along the Conesus Creek, in the foothills of New York. The falls drop 55 feet.
Height: 55 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles round trip; elevation gain: ~350 feet; difficulty: moderate; trail type: out-and-back. The route is primarily paved walkways and pedestrian bridges across Fall Creek on Cornell University property, offering easy footing for most conditions. Expect moderate overall grades as the path descends into and climbs out of the gorge; the trail is non-technical and suitable for hikers looking for a short but scenic campus-based waterfall hike.
What to Expect
The falls drop 55 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Triphammer Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Triphammer Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Stay on designated paths and bridges, as the gorge can be dangerous. Avoid visiting during icy or slippery conditions.
Current Water Conditions
301 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 45 years of record
2.87 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Lakeville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Triphammer Falls is located on the Cornell University campus in Ithaca, New York. The falls can be accessed via the pedestrian bridges near the Thurston Avenue Bridge or from the surrounding campus walkways.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available on the Cornell University campus, but it may be limited and subject to university parking regulations. Visitors should check for designated visitor parking areas or use nearby public parking options in Ithaca.
Elevation
702 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.860063° N, -77.763614° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after heavy rain for the most impressive water flow. Be mindful of university parking regulations and avoid peak campus hours for a quieter experience.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Geneseo
Spark By Hilton Rochester University Area
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Rochester-Pittsford-Brighton, NY
Homewood Suites by Hilton Rochester Henrietta
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls in Ithaca, such as Ithaca Falls and Buttermilk Falls State Park, as well as the Cornell Botanic Gardens and downtown Ithaca.
Wildlife
The area around the falls may feature birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife typical of the region.
Cities near Triphammer Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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