First Dam Six Mile Creek Reservoir
A local gem for a refreshing dip, featuring a deep pool for swimming and diving, shallow wading areas, and scenic hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Coolest temps, fewer crowds
First Dam Six Mile Creek Reservoir
Best Time
Coolest temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A local gem for a refreshing dip, featuring a deep pool for swimming and diving, shallow wading areas, and scenic hiking trails.
"Awesome place to go swimming and cool off in Ithaca, perfect for locals and visitors alike!"
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for navigating the rocky creek bed. Protect your feet from sharp edges and slippery surfaces .
🐍 Be Snake Aware
Copperheads have been spotted. Be cautious, especially in deeper vegetation, and admire from a distance .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dam's Deep Pool
Near the old dam
Perfect for a refreshing dip and thrilling cliff diving. Locals love this spot to cool off on hot days .
Shallow Wading Areas
Along the creek banks
Ideal for a gentle cool-off or for younger visitors to splash around and skip rocks .
Scenic Hike
Wildflower hiking trail
Enjoy a beautiful walk through nature before reaching the water, with opportunities to observe local flora and fauna .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Fish
Access & Parking Realities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for navigating the rocky creek bed. Protect your feet from sharp edges and slippery surfaces.
🐍 Be Snake Aware
Copperheads have been spotted. Be cautious, especially in deeper vegetation, and admire from a distance.
Visit with kids advice
🎣 Watch for Fish
Some visitors report fish nibbling in deeper sections. It's part of the natural experience!
🚗 Parking is Limited
Expect a short hike from parking. Plan accordingly and don't expect easy, close access.
What do you wish newcomers knew?
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for navigating the rocky creek bed. Protect your feet from sharp edges and slippery surfaces.
🐍 Be Snake Aware
Copperheads have been spotted. Be cautious, especially in deeper vegetation, and admire from a distance.
🎣 Watch for Fish
Some visitors report fish nibbling in deeper sections. It's part of the natural experience!
🚗 Parking is Limited
Expect a short hike from parking. Plan accordingly and don't expect easy, close access.
💧 Algae Alert
Brown algae can be present. Be careful when entering the water, especially in deeper areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about First Dam Six Mile Creek Reservoir as a beautiful, natural spot to cool off, offering both deep swimming/diving areas and shallow wading zones. The scenic hike adds to the appeal, though limited parking and the need for water shoes due to rocky terrain are common considerations. Some mention encountering fish or algae, and caution regarding snakes is advised.
"Absolutely beautiful, it was a great place to cool off, there were deep parts for swimming and diving, and shallow areas for wading. I did get chomped on a couple times by a fish in the deeper sections so be cautious of that when swimming. I don’t think there are many fish that live there, but I encountered a very hungry one. 😂"
emilee_ 13
"This was an awsome quick place to visit in the city to go for a hike and a swim!! Its absolutely beautiful you do need water shoes because its all rock. Be carful for snakes we saw two & one of them was a copperhead which is poisonous. Its very deep where the dam is to swim and there are two small falls. Hopefully the pictures i posted are helpful to convince anyome to visit its well worth it."
J G
"Good place to go for a dip to cool off and the perfect temperature! There is a bit of brown algae so be careful getting in. Many creatures to observe from insects to freshwater crustaceans."
Tricia Tape
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is primarily via the wildflower hiking trail lot, which has limited parking. There's also some street parking a quarter mile down the road. It's not a drive-up swimming spot; expect a hike.
Information on direct public transport is scarce. It's best to plan for a car and be prepared for the hike from the nearest accessible parking areas.
Arrive early, especially on weekends. The wildflower trail lot fills up quickly. Street parking is also an option but limited.
The hike is generally considered moderate, with some rocky terrain. It's well worth the effort for the beautiful scenery and swimming opportunities.
The main access point mentioned is the wildflower hiking trail. Other access points might exist but are less documented for visitor use.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit First Dam Six Mile Creek Reservoir. It's a natural public space.
As a natural area, there are no official operating hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee to access First Dam Six Mile Creek Reservoir. Enjoy this natural gem for free.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity, especially in the deep pool near the dam. Be aware of potential hazards like fish and algae.
While generally open, be mindful of local regulations and always practice Leave No Trace principles. Respect the natural environment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, dive from the dam (with caution!), wade in shallow areas, hike the surrounding trails, and observe nature.
Swimming is popular, but caution is advised. Be aware of the depth, potential for fish nibbles, slippery algae, and the presence of snakes.
Visitors have observed fish, freshwater crustaceans, insects, and snakes, including copperheads. It's a great spot for nature observation.
There are no official facilities like restrooms or changing areas. Plan to come prepared and pack out everything you bring in.
While not explicitly mentioned as a fishing spot, the presence of fish suggests it might be possible. However, focus is generally on swimming and hiking.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic dam, the cascading small falls, the deep swimming pool, and the surrounding natural beauty. The contrast of water and rock is stunning.
Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination. Late afternoon can also provide lovely golden hour shots.
The area around the dam itself offers dramatic perspectives. Exploring the trails can lead to elevated viewpoints overlooking the creek.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape. A waterproof phone case or camera is advisable if you plan to get close to the water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local drone laws and guidelines before flying in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Swimming and Safety at First Dam
However, safety is paramount. Visitors are strongly advised to wear water shoes due to the rocky and potentially slippery creek bed.
Navigating Access and Parking
This limited parking means that the reservoir is best suited for those who are prepared for a hike. The trails leading to the water are clearly designed for hikers, and visitors should not expect easy access or short walks from their vehicle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit