Beebe Lake Ithaca
A serene reservoir on Cornell's campus, offering scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking seasonal beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning foliage, fewer crowds
Beebe Lake Ithaca
Best Time
Stunning foliage, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene reservoir on Cornell's campus, offering scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking seasonal beauty.
"A beautiful lake with a trail that extends along the lake, very picturesque."
🚶♀️ Gentle Trail for All
The mostly paved trail around Beebe Lake is perfect for a relaxed walk, suitable for most fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:
🍂 Peak Fall Colors
Visit during peak fall foliage for incredibly picturesque views of the lake and surrounding trees. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Autumn Foliage Spectacle
Around Beebe Lake
Witness a breathtaking display of fall colors painting the trees surrounding the lake. A truly picturesque scene.
Tranquil Lake Walk
Beebe Lake Trail
Enjoy a peaceful, mostly paved 60-minute loop with lovely water views and a charming stone bridge.
Wildlife Encounters
Beebe Lake
Spot diverse bird species, including flocks of geese, and enjoy the natural habitat. A delight for nature lovers.
Triphammer Falls & Dam
Near Beebe Lake
Explore the historic dam and the picturesque Triphammer Falls, adding a touch of engineering marvel to the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Seasons at Beebe Lake
Cornell Campus Access & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Gentle Trail for All
The mostly paved trail around Beebe Lake is perfect for a relaxed walk, suitable for most fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:
🍂 Peak Fall Colors
Visit during peak fall foliage for incredibly picturesque views of the lake and surrounding trees. :camerawithflash:
🦢 Birdwatching Hotspot
Beebe Lake is a haven for birds, especially geese. Bring binoculars for an enhanced wildlife viewing experience. :bird:
❄️ Winter Wonderland
Experience the serene beauty of a frozen Beebe Lake, offering unique photo opportunities and a peaceful winter escape. :snowflake:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Gentle Trail for All
The mostly paved trail around Beebe Lake is perfect for a relaxed walk, suitable for most fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:
🍂 Peak Fall Colors
Visit during peak fall foliage for incredibly picturesque views of the lake and surrounding trees. :camerawithflash:
🦢 Birdwatching Hotspot
Beebe Lake is a haven for birds, especially geese. Bring binoculars for an enhanced wildlife viewing experience. :bird:
❄️ Winter Wonderland
Experience the serene beauty of a frozen Beebe Lake, offering unique photo opportunities and a peaceful winter escape. :snowflake:
🏞️ Cornell Campus Gem
Enjoy this beautiful natural spot right on the Cornell University campus, a perfect 'hidden gem' for exploration. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Beebe Lake is widely praised as a beautiful and peaceful natural spot on the Cornell campus, perfect for relaxing walks and enjoying nature. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained, mostly paved trail, the scenic lake views, and the opportunity to observe wildlife, especially the abundant geese. The stunning fall foliage is a major draw, making it a picturesque destination year-round.
"Beebe Lake is such a beautiful lake at the heart of Cornell’s campus. It’s a great place to enjoy lunch, take a short hike, or simply relax by the water. The scenic trails around the lake offer a peaceful escape, especially in the fall when the foliage is stunning. The sound of the waterfall nearby adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature."
Dinesh Ghimire
"Beebe Lake is a beautiful lake with a trail that extends along the lake. I was visiting for work and decided to walk around the lake since it was peak fall colors. The trails were well maintained and it was a very pleasant walk. Mostly paved trail. It was a very picturesque walk especially around the stone bridge. Wasn't very busy at all. Definatley worth checking out if you are in the area. Nice for walks and being out in nature."
Adam Reason
"Lake views, gentle trail, and wildlife"
Mavis A
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beebe Lake is located on the Cornell University campus. You can access it via campus roads and pathways. Parking is available in nearby campus lots, though fees may apply. Many visitors enjoy walking or biking to the lake from other parts of campus.
Yes, there are parking lots available on the Cornell University campus near Beebe Lake. It's advisable to check Cornell's parking regulations and fees, as they can vary.
While it's a bit of a walk, you can reach Beebe Lake from downtown Ithaca by foot, though it will take a significant amount of time. Public transportation or a short drive is generally more convenient.
Cornell University campus is served by TCAT buses, which can get you close to Beebe Lake. Check the TCAT bus routes and schedules for the most convenient options.
Walking the trail around Beebe Lake is highly recommended for the best experience. You can also combine your visit with exploring other parts of the beautiful Cornell campus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Beebe Lake is a natural area and part of Cornell University's campus, generally accessible to the public without an entry fee.
While access to the lake itself is free, you may encounter parking fees if you drive to the Cornell campus.
Beebe Lake is an outdoor natural area and is typically accessible during daylight hours. Specific access might be subject to Cornell University's campus hours and any seasonal restrictions.
Swimming is generally not permitted in Beebe Lake. The focus is on enjoying the scenic beauty and trails. Always check for posted signs regarding permitted activities.
Yes, the loop trail around Beebe Lake takes about 60 minutes, making it perfect for a short, refreshing visit or a break during a campus tour.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a scenic walk on the paved trail, admire the lake and waterfall, observe wildlife like geese, and appreciate the natural beauty of the Cornell campus. 
The loop trail around Beebe Lake is approximately 60 minutes for a leisurely walk.
The trail is mostly paved and considered gentle, making it suitable for most visitors. It offers beautiful views without strenuous hiking.
Beebe Lake is known for its bird population, especially flocks of geese. You might also spot other waterfowl and local wildlife.
While there may not be designated picnic tables, the scenic surroundings of Beebe Lake are perfect for enjoying a packed lunch or snack.
📸 📸 Photography
The stone bridge, the dam, Triphammer Falls, and any point along the trail offering views of the lake and surrounding foliage are excellent for photography.
Absolutely! Beebe Lake is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage, making it a prime location for vibrant fall photography.
Yes, Beebe Lake is a great spot for wildlife photography, particularly for birds like geese and various waterfowl.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and any university policies.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, especially during the golden hours, enhancing the natural beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While swimming isn't permitted, the scenic beauty and the relatively short loop trail make it an ideal spot for a family picnic or a refreshing break during a day of exploring Ithaca. The natural setting provides a safe and enjoyable environment for kids to connect with nature.
🚶♀️ Nature Walk Enthusiasts
The changing seasons offer a unique experience each time. From the vibrant fall foliage to the serene frozen landscape in winter, Beebe Lake provides a consistently beautiful backdrop for your walks. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that calls the lake home.
+2📸 Photographers
+1Wildlife photography is also a strong suit here, with opportunities to photograph geese, ducks, and other birds in their natural habitat. Early morning and late afternoon light can enhance your shots, offering that coveted golden hour glow.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Beauty of Beebe Lake
+1The primary attraction is the well-maintained loop trail that encircles the lake. This mostly paved path is approximately 60 minutes long, making it an ideal route for a leisurely walk, a jog, or simply a peaceful stroll to connect with nature. The trail offers varied perspectives of the lake, the falls, and the lush vegetation that changes dramatically with the seasons.
Beebe Lake is particularly famous for its stunning autumn foliage, transforming into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. In winter, the lake can freeze over, offering a unique, tranquil beauty. Spring brings new life with blooming flora and returning migratory birds, while summer provides a lush green backdrop for outdoor enjoyment.
+2Wildlife and Birdwatching Opportunities
Beyond geese, the lake attracts a diverse range of waterfowl. Birdwatchers have noted sightings of Hooded Mergansers, Ring-necked Ducks, and Buffleheads, among others. The surrounding trees and water provide essential food and shelter for these species, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the area.
Observing wildlife at Beebe Lake is a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned birder or simply enjoy watching animals in their natural habitat, the lake offers ample opportunities for quiet observation and photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Exploring Beebe Lake's History and Features
The stone bridge that crosses a section of the lake is another picturesque element, often highlighted in visitor photos and descriptions. This architectural feature adds to the charm of the walking trail and provides excellent vantage points for enjoying the scenery. The history of the area is intertwined with Cornell University's development, with the lake and its features contributing to the campus's aesthetic appeal.
Beebe Lake's location on the Cornell campus means it's a place where nature, history, and academia converge. It serves as a living laboratory for students studying ecology and ornithology, while also offering a peaceful retreat for anyone looking to appreciate the natural world.
+1
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