One of the things I’ve always appreciated about our campus is how beautiful and integrated in nature it is. Little moments like seeing a whole herd of deer settle down on the Arts Quad (and even stranger, seeing students walk past as if it was no big deal instead of gaping and taking a 100 pictures like I did) provide a much needed reprieve from schoolwork. This week, I was able to cross one item off of my list of things to do at Cornell and go on my first hike around the gorges. With Todd as our guide, we set off Sunday morning and climbed hills, struggled up stairs, crossed a bridge or two, marveled at the amazing scenery, and stopped every now and then to reflect on the history of Fall Creek Gorge. I would describe how beautiful and serene it was, but I think the pictures can speak for themselves. I found out that this gorge was only a 10 minute walk away from West Campus (guess where I’ll be going more often next semester?) and learned about the purpose of Ezra’s Tunnel, as well as how different layers of sediment, tectonic plates, and weather conditions shaped the infamous gorges to look like how they do today. I’m glad I got the chance to take some time off to destress and find out why exactly so many people say Ithaca is gorges.