Buttermilk Falls is deservedly famous for its spectacular falls and steep canyon that can be viewed from the Gorge Trail.  Much less known is a lovely creek and ravine to the north, which can be viewed from the Owl Creek Trail and yet another ravine with an interesting water diversion structure.

On this hike, we explore both the Owl Creek Trail and other parts of the Park that we rarely see.  Our outing will include a loop through the Ithaca College Natural Lands between Stone Quarry Road and Rt. 96B and a section of the Chainworks Rail-trail that runs from the old Emerson plant to the Lower Buttermilk parking area.

This hike is expected to be around 5 miles, with some long up hill sections, areas with poor footing, poorly marked trails and some off trail bushwacking.  With the latter in mind it will be essential that this group stay together as the route cannot be intuitively followed.

Wear warm, layered clothing, bring traction footwear and hiking poles, and carry lunch/snacks and water.