Is swimming allowed at Buttermilk Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Buttermilk Falls.

Live Conditions · 2,490 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

Loop

Elevation Gain

500 ft

About Buttermilk Falls

Buttermilk Falls, just outside Ithaca, is a scenic cascade series that culminates in a prominent 165-foot drop tucked into a wooded gorge. Nestled within Buttermilk Falls State Park, the falls are framed by steep limestone walls and lush forest, making the area a favorite for photography, picnics, and a refreshing dose of upstate New York scenery. The park’s popular Gorge Trail forms a roughly 1.5-mile loop with about 500 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate, so it delivers dramatic waterfall viewpoints without requiring a full-day commitment. Along the way stone steps, bridges, and overlook platforms bring you close to the rushing water and the layered cascades, offering a compact, memorable hike in the Ithaca gorges region.

The Setting

Buttermilk Falls sits at 1,417 feet in the foothills of New York. At 165 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in New York.

Height: 165 feet

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

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

Trail Description

Gorge Trail (Buttermilk Falls State Park) — 1.5-mile loop, ~500 ft elevation gain, difficulty: moderate. The trail follows the gorge and provides close-up views of the cascading falls and the main 165-foot drop. Expect built stone steps, footbridges, and multiple viewpoints as you move through the gorge; the route uses stair sections and short connector paths to link scenic overlooks into a loop.

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 offers beautiful foliage, while summer is popular for swimming in designated areas.

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 allowed in designated areas.

Current Water Conditions

Updated 31 minutes ago Moderate

2,490 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

1.0k 1.4k 3.3k 4.7k

Based on 11 years of record

20.68 ft

Water depth at gauge

71°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 71 degrees F, pleasant for swimming. Mineral content is typical.

Water Quality

398 µS/cm

Conductance

Dissolved minerals in the water

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

MOHAWK R ABOVE STATE HIGHWAY 30A AT FONDA NY

USGS 01349527

13.3 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 2,118 sq mi

Altitude: 257 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge MOHAWK R ABOVE STATE HIGHWAY 30A AT FONDA NY (21 km away).

Moderate confidence

Strong right now

2610 cfs

↑ Rising

Today

Strong

2610 cfs

10/10

Tomorrow

Strong

2577 cfs

10/10

Tue

Roaring

3102 cfs

6/10

Wed

Strong

2757 cfs

10/10

Thu

Strong

2610 cfs

10/10

Fri

Roaring

2988 cfs

6/10

Sat

Roaring

2984 cfs

6/10

Best window: Today — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to late April, 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 Gloversville 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 in Buttermilk Falls State Park, just south of 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

Parking is available at the main entrance of Buttermilk Falls State Park. A parking fee may apply during peak seasons.

Elevation

1,417 feet above sea level

Coordinates

43.134239° N, -74.295413° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes for the hike. Be cautious on wet or uneven surfaces.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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.