Travertine Ilion Gorge New York

We enjoy checking out new places to explore, and after a trip to Western New York, we decided to check out a place that was supposed to be a source of natural travertine, at Ilion Gorge.

We parked where the road is marked is closed, just off the main road.  Many years ago, the county closed Jerusalem Road (Co. Rd 16) because of repeated flooding and other issues.  You can find this spot right where Jerusalem Hill Road meets Route 51.

Ilion Gorge NY

There was a small spot for maybe 1-2 cars.

Travertine

To the right of the “ROAD CLOSED” signs, there are some shorter guard rails that we climbed over.

Travertine Mine

While the road is very overgrown, there is definitely a path along the road.

Ilion Gorge Travertine New York

And while there is a path, it is not maintained.  We went after some rain and almost gave up after encountering some serious mud, but persevered.

Ilion Gorge Travertine New York

Some spots were much better than others, like this stretch of clear road.

Ilion Gorge Travertine New York

The path meanders along a stream, and as you get to an area with more substantial water, the road was washed out.

Ilion Gorge Travertine New York

Ilion Gorge Travertine New York

Travertine

We did find some pieces of travertine after looking around the waterfall area.

Travertine

We haven’t had a chance to polish our pieces yet, but it was interesting to find some naturally occurring travertine.