Is swimming allowed at Buttermilk Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Buttermilk Falls.

Live Conditions · 1,700 ft³/s · About average

Buttermilk Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Buttermilk Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Buttermilk Falls.

New York • 15 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 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, called Horseshoe Falls by Cohoes locals, is a wide, low ledge drop of about 15 feet where the middle sprout of the Mohawk River spills into the Hudson at the southeast corner of Peebles Island State Park, roughly a mile downstream of Cohoes Falls. It can be viewed from the park's outer perimeter trail or from the Cohoes shore near Park and Gansevoort Avenues, and flow varies greatly with river level and upstream power-dam releases.

The Setting

Buttermilk Falls sits at 20 feet along the Mohawk River, in the coastal lowlands of New York. The falls drop 15 feet.

Height: 15 feet

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

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

Cohoes Falls

Trail & Hike Details

1.5 mi distance 500 ft climbed

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 drop a gentle 15 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 2 hours ago Moderate

1,700 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

772 1.2k 3.2k 6.7k

Based on 100 years of record

8.67 ft

Water depth at gauge

65°F

Cool

Refreshing for swimming

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 65 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Mineral content is typical.

Water Quality

378 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

Moderate right now

1700 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Moderate

1836 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Moderate

1808 cfs

8/10

Thu

Moderate

1653 cfs

9/10

Fri

Moderate

1918 cfs

6/10

Sat

Moderate

1867 cfs

9/10

Sun

Moderate

1918 cfs

6/10

Mon

Moderate

1979 cfs

6/10

Best window: Thu — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).

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.