I am grateful that we have such beautiful scenery and nature surrounding our campus, something that other universities located in the middle of cities do not have. With the guide, it was very interesting to learn about all the details that could be easily dismissed, such as the fact that the types of trees growing on both sides of the gorge are different, and the fact that there was an eagles nest on the cliff (pictured below). One of the things the guide mentioned was the health benefits that being in nature provides, with the most significant effect being stress relief. Though I was stressed out due to the pile of obligations on my shoulders (including having to complete a Rose Scholars event before Sunday ended, and it was already Sunday), I felt refreshed after going on the hike. I would encourage anyone who hasn’t visited the natural areas around campus to visit when they have time and avoid being “stuck” going to only places near your dorm and classes (like I usually am in the Ag Quad, Tower Rd. and West Campus).
If you are really interested in nature and things, be sure to visit the earth museum here in Ithaca!
I totally agree with you on encouraging people to visit the natural areas around Ithaca when they have the time. I find that it can be really hard to give yourself a break, but the fact that these natural areas in Ithaca are so close, well-maintained, and well-documented is such a treasure. It will be hard to find something similar when we graduate and leave campus.