Is swimming allowed at Buttermilk Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Buttermilk Falls.

Live Conditions · 1,720 ft³/s · About average

Buttermilk Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Buttermilk Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Buttermilk Falls.

New York • 165 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Also For 22 other waterfalls also named Buttermilk Falls, see below

Photo Credits (5)

Dougtone CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

500 ft

About Buttermilk Falls

Buttermilk Falls plunges a dramatic 165 feet through a series of rocky steps and pools, creating one of the most photographed cascades in the Ithaca area. The falls are especially striking after heavy rain or spring snowmelt, when the gorge fills and the layered bedrock channels water into thundering tiers. Note that “Buttermilk Falls” is a common name for waterfalls across the U.S.; this particular ribbon of water sits just outside Ithaca and is known for its steep, sculpted rock formations. The falls lie within Buttermilk Falls State Park, making them an easy day destination for hikers and families. The popular Gorge Trail traces the cascading creek upstream, passing multiple smaller cascades and offering a series of close-up viewing spots. With a mix of stone steps and natural tread, the setting feels intimate and wild while remaining accessible for most moderately fit visitors.

The Setting

Buttermilk Falls sits at 20 feet along the Mohawk River, in the coastal lowlands of New York. At 165 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in New York.

Height: 165 feet

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Cohoes Falls (90 ft) lies 1.4 miles to the northwest.

Cohoes Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Gorge Trail (the primary route to the falls) is an out-and-back route of about 1.5 miles round trip with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The path follows the stream upstream, switching between natural dirt tread and built stone steps; several short, steep stretches require careful footing. Expect close-up viewpoints of the main 165-foot fall and additional smaller cascades along the route — a compact, scenic hike that rewards steady climbers.

What to Expect

The falls plunge 165 feet. Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Buttermilk Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $9.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Buttermilk Falls?

✅ Swimming is allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is strongest due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall is also popular for its colorful foliage.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Stay on marked trails and avoid climbing on rocks near the falls. Swimming is only permitted in designated areas during lifeguard hours.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Low

1,720 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

1.2k 1.5k 3.4k 6.3k

Based on 100 years of record

8.69 ft

Water depth at gauge

76°F

Comfortable

Pleasant for swimming

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. The water is a comfortable 76 degrees F, pleasant for swimming. Mineral content is typical.

Water Quality

380 µS/cm

Conductance

Dissolved minerals in the water

About This Gauge

MOHAWK RIVER AT COHOES NY

USGS 01357500

1.2 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 3,450 sq mi

Altitude: 48 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge MOHAWK RIVER AT COHOES NY (2 km away).

High confidence

Low right now

1720 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Low

1720 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Moderate

1664 cfs

4/10

Wed

Moderate

1748 cfs

4/10

Thu

Moderate

1578 cfs

8/10

Fri

Moderate

1604 cfs

4/10

Sat

Moderate

1514 cfs

4/10

Sun

Moderate

1658 cfs

4/10

Best window: Thu — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid May, peaking in April.

How we calculate this

This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Cohoes hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Buttermilk Falls is located within Buttermilk Falls State Park, approximately 2 miles south of downtown Ithaca, New York. The park entrance is off Route 13, and the falls are easily accessible from the main parking area.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a designated parking area near the base of the falls within Buttermilk Falls State Park. Parking fees may apply during peak seasons.

Elevation

20 feet above sea level

Coordinates

42.775833° N, -73.687778° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the trail can be uneven and slippery. Bring water and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

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With 1.5 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.