Lake Treman

This difficult 23.8-mile hike connects Robert H. Treman and Buttermilk Falls State Parks, featuring gorges and waterfalls.

The Lake Treman Loop offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience, circling the tranquil waters of Lake Treman within Buttermilk Falls State Park. You'll find yourself immersed in peaceful, shady forests, with glimpses of the lake's calm surface and its wooded shores. The path itself is a pleasant mix of natural ground and historic stone staircases, showcasing the impressive craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps. It's a perfect spot for a quiet nature walk, providing a serene contrast to the park's more rugged gorge trails.

Planning your visit to this easy 1.3-mile (2.1 km) circular walk is straightforward, with parking readily available within Buttermilk Falls State Park. With only 70 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain, the route takes approximately 33 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a quick outing. The trail is generally open year-round, but visiting during the spring or fall allows you to enjoy the vibrant seasonal colors and comfortable temperatures, enhancing the scenic beauty.

What makes the Lake Treman Loop particularly notable is its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. While the park is famous for its dramatic waterfalls, this loop provides a more intimate lake experience, offering a different perspective on the region's diverse landscapes. It also connects to a spur of the wider Finger Lakes Trail, providing options for longer excursions if you wish to extend your adventure beyond this family friendly loop.

If you're after a hike that delivers dramatic scenery without an all-day commitment, the Lake Treman Loop via Gorge, Bear, and Rim Trail is a solid choice. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) route, with 607 feet (185 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through rugged gorges, past stunning waterfalls like Lucifer Falls, and along the peaceful shores of Lake Treman. Expect a mix of dirt paths, gravel, and historic stone staircases, offering a dynamic and engaging experience that typically takes around 2 hours and 9 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available at Robert H. Treman State Park, a common trailhead for this loop. While the trail is generally accessible, it's always wise to check park conditions, especially during spring thaws or after heavy rains, as some gorge sections might be temporarily closed. For a refreshing dip during warmer weather, keep an eye out for the natural swimming hole at the base of Enfield Falls.

What makes this loop truly stand out is its geological significance and historical infrastructure. The landscape, carved by glaciers, showcases impressive shale and sandstone cliffs, while many of the well-crafted stone staircases were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It's a journey through diverse ecosystems, from the moist micro-climate of the glen to surrounding woodlands, making it a notable trail in the Finger Lakes region.