Sweedler and Thayer Preserves

Sweedler and Thayer Preserves in Ithaca, NY, offer a stunning natural landscape for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. With a total of 155 acres and 2 miles of trails, visitors can immerse themselves in the geologic history and ecological systems of the Finger Lakes Region, including the breathtaking Lick Brook gorge and its waterfalls. The preserves boast a diverse range of tree species, vibrant wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, providing a peaceful and educational experience for nature lovers.

Originally cleared for timber and agriculture, the land was later left to recover and return to forest. Recognizing the exceptional beauty and development pressure in the area, the Finger Lakes Land Trust purchased 128 acres from Moss and Kristin Sweedler in 1993, creating the Sweedler Preserve. The adjacent Thayer Preserve offers a more gentle topography but still features steep banks, cliffs, and a bedrock stream bed. Both preserves are dedicated to the perpetual protection of the Lick Brook corridor, allowing for hiking, access to Buttermilk Falls State Park, and the preservation of Cayuga Lake's water quality.

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