How Big is Cayuga Lake?

Cayuga Lake, one of the most iconic water bodies in central New York, is part of the renowned Finger Lakes region. Known for its natural beauty, rich Native American heritage, and role in local ecology and recreation, Cayuga Lake is not only a popular destination but also a geographical marvel. So, how big is Cayuga Lake? Let’s explore the impressive dimensions and significance of this glacial lake.

Size and Dimensions of Cayuga Lake

Cayuga Lake is the longest of the Finger Lakes and the second largest by surface area, right after Seneca Lake. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its size:

Length: Approximately 38.2 miles (61.5 kilometers) long, stretching in a north-south direction.

Maximum Width: Around 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) at its widest point.

Surface Area: About 66.4 square miles (172 square kilometers).

Maximum Depth: Around 435 feet (133 meters), making it the second deepest Finger Lake after Seneca Lake.

Average Depth: Estimated at 180 feet (55 meters).

Volume: Roughly 2.5 trillion gallons of water—an impressive amount that feeds into numerous tributaries and supports a wide range of aquatic life.

Elevation: The lake’s surface sits at approximately 382 feet (116 meters) above sea level.

Comparing Cayuga Lake to Other Finger Lakes

Cayuga Lake is part of a group of 11 long, narrow lakes formed by glacial activity. While it shares many geological and ecological features with its neighboring lakes, its sheer size gives it some unique characteristics.

◉ Seneca Lake, for instance, is slightly shorter in length (about 38 miles) but has a larger surface area (roughly 68.9 square miles) and is deeper at 618 feet.

◉ Cayuga is longer and narrower, which creates more shoreline length and opportunities for lakeside communities, vineyards, and parks.

Hydrology and Watershed

Cayuga Lake is part of the larger Oswego River Basin. It drains northward into the Seneca River, which flows into the Oswego River and eventually reaches Lake Ontario.

Its watershed spans about 785 square miles, collecting water from over 140 streams and creeks. Major tributaries include Fall Creek, Sixmile Creek, and Salmon Creek. At the northern end of the lake, the outflow is controlled by the Mud Lock near the town of Cayuga, which regulates water levels and prevents flooding.

Human Settlements and Uses

The city of Ithaca is located at the southern tip of the lake and serves as a major hub for tourism, education, and commerce. Cayuga Lake supports multiple municipalities along its shores, including the towns of Lansing, Union Springs, Aurora, and Seneca Falls.

It serves as a source of drinking water, irrigation, and recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is also central to the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, home to some of New York State’s top-rated wineries.

Conclusion

Cayuga Lake is much more than just a scenic destination—its size and structure shape the natural, cultural, and economic fabric of the Finger Lakes region. At over 38 miles long and holding trillions of gallons of freshwater, it is a powerful reminder of the geological forces that shaped the land and the ongoing human connection to water.

Whether you're a boater, angler, hiker, or wine enthusiast, understanding just how big Cayuga Lake is gives you a deeper appreciation of this magnificent natural treasure in the heart of New York State.