Lake Ontario features several unique geographical formations along its northern shoreline, known as Lake Bluff. These bluffs were formed by drumlins created by glaciers, which have eroded over time. One lesser-known bluff in this area is Sitts Bluff, located at the eastern edge of Fair Haven State Park. Although Sitts Bluff is nearly as large as the more popular Chimney Bluffs, it provides a quieter experience free from crowds.
If you haven’t yet experienced the beauty of these formations (any of the Lake Ontario Bluffs), you need to add them to your “must-visit” list. The Lake Bluffs rise majestically along Lake Ontario’s shoreline, with their unique shapes and colors creating a captivating landscape. These natural wonders inspire awe with their rugged cliffs and lush greenery, making them a must-see for anyone who appreciates the great outdoors.
Visiting Sitts Bluff
There are two ways to access this amazing bluff: you can start from Fair Haven State Park, which may charge an entrance fee depending on the season, or you can begin at Sterling Nature Center, which has no entrance fee. You will need to walk approximately one mile to reach the bluffs, regardless of which park you choose.
Exploring the Beach
If you enjoy exploring the beaches of Lake Ontario, you’re in for a treat because there is nearly a mile of beach stretching between Fair Haven Beach State Park and Sterling Nature Center. Sitts Bluff is located almost directly in the middle of these two parks.
Unlike many of the smaller lake bluffs we have visited, like Scotts Bluff and McIntyre Bluffs, Sitts Bluff is significantly larger. It is especially noticeable when you are exploring the Bluffs from the beach. The topography of Sitts Bluff is like something from another world. It blows your mind just how massive these Bluffs genuinely are, especially when you feel dwarfed by them in comparison.
Although Fair Haven State Park has no swimming signs posted, that does not mean you can’t wade.
Exploring Bluffs from Above
For those seeking a breathtaking view of the Bluffs from above, an exhilarating cliffside trail begins at the very edge on the Fair Haven side. This narrow path meanders alongside the dramatic cliffs, offering stunning vistas of the landscape below. However, it requires caution—watch your step and stay clear of the edge, where the drop can be significant. The trail may not be suitable for small children due to its proximity to the cliff face. As you navigate this scenic route, you’ll eventually descend toward the serene Jupiter Pond marsh area, but be prepared for a steep decent part of the way down. I was definitely feeling it in my knees!
Ruins in the Woods
As you approach the Bluffs from the Fair Haven side, you will see a trail near the marshes that heads towards the woods with red circular trail markers. I initially thought that this trail would lead us to the top of the bluffs, but actually leads into the adjacent woods. It is the remains of an old road, Cooper Bluff Rd. (You can see it on Google Maps.)
While walking along the trail, I noticed a stone staircase in the middle of the woods. Curious, we decided to get a closer look and discovered the remains of a large foundation and several stone structures. The area is quite overgrown, and many thorny bushes are mixed among the brush, so be cautious if you decide to explore.
Out and About with Nova
We visited with Nova in late fall, and both the trail to Sitts Bluff and the bluffs themselves were utterly deserted. It was nice to have the place to ourselves, and Nova loved running through the crunching autumn leaves. The trail from Fair Haven runs along the marsh, so there is always plenty of wildlife to spot, which is Nova’s favorite activity besides hiking.
Even with an empty park, please note that your dog must be leashed in Fair Haven Beach State Park and Sterling Nature Center. Also, please remember to clean up after them as well.
Getting to Sitts Bluff
Google Map Link
As I said before, there are two ways to reach Sitts Bluff. Since we were visiting in late fall, after the State Parks stopped charging for admission, we took the trail from Fair Haven State Park. To access the trail, you must take State Park Rd (the main entrance road) around the Pond to Middle Road. The road will end at a barricade, and you will see signs for the Lakeshore Trail as you proceed.
Google Map Link – Trail Head at Fair Haven
The Lakeshore Trail is an easy mostly flat hike all the way down to the lakeshore. Then you continue a little over 1/4 mile over the beach to the Bluffs.
If you visit from Sterling Nature Center, set your GPS to the McIntyre Bluffs and the trail from the small parking area all the way down to the beach, then walk the beach over to Sitts Bluff.