These 48 acres of forest protect over 6000 feet along the upper reaches of Lick Brook in Ithaca.

Natural History

Downstream from Kingsbury Woods, Lick Brook carves a spectacular gorge on its way to the Cayuga Inlet below; here, however, the headwater streams course gently through old fields that are gradually reverting to hardwood forest.

In the southern section of the woods stand several giant old oaks.  Dwarfing the surrounding, much younger hardwoods, these “wolf trees” once upon a time spread their impressive branches in an open field with broad views of the surrounding countryside.

The trail also skirts a vernal pool teeming with the activity of wood frogs, salamanders, insects, and birds.

In April 2011, a tornado with winds in excess of 100 mph swept through the preserve and destroyed many of the trees. We are now watching with interest as the forest rapidly recovers.

Recent History

In 2008, Sheela Kingsbury generously donated the 48-acre forest, containing over 6000 feet of frontage on the upper reaches of Lick Brook.  With the addition of this property, the Land Trust now has secured over 300 acres in the Lick Brook area, helping to protect Cayuga Inlet water quality and stem the tide of development on this lovely hillside.

Land Acknowledgment

The Finger Lakes Land Trust recognizes that our nature preserves exist on the homeland of the Haudenosaunee. We hope to honor indigenous peoples’ ongoing relationship with the land by conserving wild places forever.

Public Use

Please see our public use policies for recreational activities on nature preserves.

During the full hunting season, from October 1- December 17, bow hunters will be hunting on the preserve in locations that are at least 150 feet from the marked hiking trail, and the trail will remain open to the public during that time. Hikers must stay on the marked hiking trail at all times. Hunters will be allowed to hunt with bow only throughout the regular bow season, as well as through the regular gun season and late bow/muzzle-loader hunting season.

SEE MORE PRESERVES ON GOFINGERLAKES.ORG

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