- 48 Vine Street Naples, NY 14512
Grimes Glen Park is known for its three, 60-ft. waterfalls, formed by the gushing runoff of the last ice age. Grimes Glen captures the beauty that many Finger Lakes gorges have to offer: ice-cold snow melt and creek waters rushing, snaking, and cascading their way down into secret ice-carved valleys. However, it is best remembered as the source of the oldest fossilized tree in New York. The so-called Naples Devonian Tree was discovered in the glen by D. Dana Luther in 1882. A Naples native who served as President of the village, was a descendent of pioneers who first settled the town.
Born in 1840, Dana Luther became interested in geology and spent many years assisting the research of his nephew, Dr. John M. Clarke, State Geologist and State Paleontologist for many years. Mr. Luther served on Clarke’s staff at the State Museum from 1891 to 1916. The fossilized tree that Luther discovered in Grimes Glen was removed by paleontologists in 1887 and put on display in the State Museum in Albany. In 1982, the Naples Historical Society published a nine page pamphlet, “D. Dana Luther and the Naples Devonian Tree 1882-1982,” that is still available and relates the complete story of the fossil tree and Mr. Luther.
Parking and Access at Grimes Glen
Vine Street runs off Main Street in downtown Naples. Drive to the end of Vine Street to the parking area for Grimes Glen. Although Grimes Glen is open to those who want to visit, parking is limited; it's encouraged visitors to park in the municipal lot located on Mill Street. Grimes Glen does not accommodate large RV's and trailers.
After crossing the charming footbridge upon arrival, simply follow the marked trail to the first waterfall, which is partially paved. The remainder of the "trail" requires crossing Grimes Creek to get to the other falls. Depending on the season, this can be a foot or more deep. There's also a bit of scrambling on slippery surfaces. For those who are able to do so, water shoes or sturdy waterproof boots are highly recommended.
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General
- Pet Friendly