Fall Creek (New York) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fall Creek |
|
---|---|
![]() |
|
Country | United States |
State | New York |
Physical characteristics | |
Main source | Sempronius, New York |
River mouth | Cayuga Lake Ithaca, New York, United States 42°27′36″N 76°30′35″W / 42.46000°N 76.50972°W |
Basin features | |
Basin size | 128 sq mi (330 km2) |
Tributaries |
|
Fall Creek is a river found in Tompkins County, New York. It flows into Cayuga Lake near Ithaca, New York. This creek is well-known for the beautiful waterfalls and natural areas along its path. It also runs right through the campus of Cornell University.
Contents
Exploring Fall Creek
Fall Creek is an important waterway in central New York. It starts in the town of Sempronius, New York. From there, it travels about 30 miles (48 km) through different areas. The creek's water eventually reaches Cayuga Lake, one of New York's large Finger Lakes. The area that drains into Fall Creek is about 128 square miles (332 km²). This means a lot of smaller streams and land contribute water to the creek.
Journey Through Ithaca
As Fall Creek gets closer to Ithaca, New York, it becomes a major part of the city's landscape. It flows right through the middle of the Cornell University campus. Here, students and visitors can enjoy the creek's natural beauty. The creek also passes through Stewart Park before it joins Cayuga Lake. This park is a popular spot for outdoor activities.
Amazing Waterfalls and Lakes
Fall Creek is famous for its stunning waterfalls and a special lake.

- Beebe Lake: This is a small, artificial lake created by a dam on Fall Creek. It's a peaceful place on the Cornell campus. People often go there for walks or to relax by the water.
- Triphammer Falls: Just below Beebe Lake, you'll find Triphammer Falls. This waterfall is very scenic, especially when the water flow is high. It's a popular spot for photos.
- Ithaca Falls: Closer to where Fall Creek meets Cayuga Lake is Ithaca Falls. This is a very tall and powerful waterfall. It's one of the most impressive natural sights in the city of Ithaca.
Other Streams Joining Fall Creek
Many smaller streams, called tributaries, flow into Fall Creek. These streams add more water to the creek as it travels.
- Streams on the left: Some of the streams that join Fall Creek from the left side (if you're looking downstream) include Beaver Creek, Mud Creek, and Virgil Creek.
- Streams on the right: On the right side, you'll find streams like Lake Como Outlet, Webster Brook, and Mill Creek.