Mulholland Wildflower Preserve & Six Mile Creek Natural Area

This was my third time here and I'm only now writing about it.  The reason is that my expectations for this trail were not appropriately set at first. The Mulholland Wildflower Preserve and Six Mile Creek Natural Area, situated nicely between Ithaca College and Route 79 (State St) is for the local adventure-seeker who isn't concerned with following a clear, cut-and-dry trail. I would consider this an "out-and-back," but there are many options to "get lost" and create your own journey each time you come here. Though it may be confusing the first time you do this, I argue that the more times you run here and get familiar with the area, the more you'll enjoy running the Preserve. I ran just over 4 miles here today, but the next time i come, I'm fairly certain I can get 6+ miles here on one trip.

Some details:

Run Type: Out-and-back (and all sorts of in between)

Running Distance: If you're going to do this trail, you've already decided that you're looking for adventure with a little uncertainty.  I think that you can get at least 6 miles here, possibly more.  I'll update this blog once I run it again.

Park Location & Trailhead: There is a big parking area near the intersection of Water St. and Giles St. in Ithaca.  Type "Mulholland Wildflower Preserve" into Google and it'll get you to where you need to park.

If you have a GPS to help you, be on the lookout for trail that turns 90 degrees to the left at about mile 0.6.  Take this left to keep the adventure going.  If you miss this turn, you'll end up at the base of the dam, which is beautiful (check it out if you have time), but I found that it's a dead-end. 

After you take this left, you'll climb for about 0.1 mile and you've given the option to continue straight or turn right up a switchback.  I suggest turning right so you can make your run longer.

Park Map: There is a pretty confusing trail map available near the trailhead, but I wouldn't suggest trying to follow it.  However, many of the trees are labeled with a stripe of blue paint to help keep you going in the right direction.  If all else fails, ensure  you keep the creek to your right (as you are running into the Preserve).

Parking fee: Free!

Trail conditions: This trail gives you a taste of it all...dirt, mud, roots, rocks, stream crossings (and frozen if you come in the winter), and leaves.  Be careful, as many parts of the trail are narrow and steep.

Photo opportunities: This is a beautiful run that follows Six Mile Creek most of the way.  I would have taken more photos, except my phone decided to die partway through the run. With some challenging climbs, you'll have some great views at elevation, including some hidden waterfalls and gorges.  Definitely make this a top priority run if you're only in Ithaca for a short time.
 
Difficulty (1 to 5 scale): 4.  Parts of this trail can be pretty challenging, from several short and steep climbs to narrow passages.  You'll cross some streams (and will even have to cross one using a pipeline). 
 
Elevation profile: According to my GPS: minimum - 576ft, maximum - 775ft. 

Major Benefits:  Close to home if you live in/around Center Ithaca.  Offers a unique flavor for the adventure-seeker.

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