Bahar Preserve and Carpenter's Falls

Bahar Preserve and Carpenter's Falls: A Hidden Gem in the Skaneateles Lake Watershed

Welcome to Bahar Preserve and Carpenter's Falls, a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located at 6062 Appletree Point, Moravia, New York. Nestled within the enchanting Skaneateles Lake Watershed, this natural haven invites you to uncover the dramatic beauty of a forest and gorge landscape, where nature's secrets await your discovery.

Explore the 53-acre Bahar Nature Preserve, a serene retreat enveloped by the Finger Lakes Land Trust. This hidden forest, nestled amidst the folds of farmland near Skaneateles Lake, boasts a mature mixed northern hardwood and hemlock forest. It forms part of a larger ecosystem that spans the Bear Swamp Creek gorge and extends through the Carpenter Falls State Unique Area and beyond.

Embark on a journey along the historic "Jug Path," a trail cherished by locals for over a century. As you hike along the south rim of the gorge, be mesmerized by the stunning vistas into the 100-foot-deep Bear Swamp Creek ravine. The preserve's terrain gently slopes around the gorge, offering glimpses of old-growth trees such as Eastern hemlock and red oak, alongside a vibrant array of species including white pine, American beech, and sugar maple.

Delight in the towering canopy and the intricate dance of wild grapevines as they entwine with maple and ash trees. The lush forest floor is adorned with mosses, ferns, and colorful wildflowers like white trillium and Jack-in-the-pulpit. Enjoy the preserve's 65 feet of Skaneateles lakeshore, perfect for beaching a canoe or kayak before setting off on the scenic ridge trail.

Discover the interconnected trails that weave through this natural wonder. The white trail follows the ancient Jug Path for 1.1 miles, linking Bahar Nature Preserve to the iconic 90-foot Carpenter Falls. Meanwhile, the red trail offers a 0.5-mile journey from the Finger Lakes Land Trust parking area to the white trail.

Please respect our natural sanctuary by refraining from parking at the beach area, and note that swimming is not allowed. We honor the legacy of Hu Bahar, a dedicated land steward, whose vision for preserving this pristine forested gorge lives on. Thanks to the generosity of Dawn Bahar and subsequent land acquisitions, public access to Carpenter Falls and the surrounding gorge is permanently protected.

In collaboration with New York State, the Finger Lakes Land Trust has enhanced access to Carpenter Falls, including an elevated boardwalk and observation platform, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. We acknowledge the Haudenosaunee people as the original stewards of this land and strive to honor their enduring connection to it.

Visit Go Finger Lakes, our free website, to explore over 50 outdoor adventure destinations across the region, promoting recreation and conservation. Follow Rt. 41A south from Skaneateles for 10.5 miles, turn left on Appletree Point Rd., and continue for 1.3 miles to reach our parking area.

Experience the natural beauty of Bahar Preserve and Carpenter's Falls, and let the Finger Lakes Land Trust guide your journey through this remarkable landscape. Sign up for our Monthly Guide to Nature Conservation in the Beautiful Finger Lakes Region and immerse yourself in the wonders of our region.