Buttermilk Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Buttermilk Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Buttermilk Falls. Up to two pets are allowed in day use areas on a leash no longer than 6 feet, but not in buildings, on playgrounds or at guarded beaches.

Q: Is swimming allowed at Buttermilk Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Buttermilk Falls. Swimming is allowed only in the natural pool below the falls when lifeguards are on duty, on a limited summer schedule; swimming in the gorge is prohibited.

New York • 165 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026

Also For 23 other waterfalls also named Buttermilk Falls, see below

Buttermilk Falls State Park State Park · SPR

Before you go

The Gorge Trail closes in winter and is typically open only from early May to early November, depending on winter damage. Check the park website or call (607) 273-5761 for current status.

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Loop

Elevation Gain

600 ft

About Buttermilk Falls

Buttermilk Falls is a 165-foot cascade where Buttermilk Creek leaves its gorge at the lower end of Buttermilk Falls State Park, just south of Ithaca. It is the last of 10 waterfalls along the creek and sits a short walk from the main entrance parking off NY 13. A natural pool at its base is used for lifeguarded swimming in summer.

The Setting

Buttermilk Falls sits at 457 feet within Buttermilk Falls State Park, 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

Taughannock Falls (215 ft) lies 9.5 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Ithaca Falls (150 ft, 2.9 mi) and Lucifer Falls (115 ft, 3.4 mi).

Taughannock Falls Ithaca Falls Lucifer Falls

Trail & Hike Details

1.5 mi distance 600 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 1.5-mile loop trail gains 600 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The main falls are steps from the lower park lot. To see the rest of the gorge, the Gorge Trail (0.65 mile) climbs about 600 feet beside Buttermilk Creek on many stone steps, past deep pools, sculpted rock and several waterfalls, and ends just past 42-foot Pinnacle Rock in the upper park. The Rim Trail (0.82 mile) on the other side of the gorge brings you back down for a loop of about 1.5 miles. Ithaca Trails rates the Gorge Trail difficult because of the steps.

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
Up to two pets are allowed in day use areas on a leash no longer than 6 feet, but not in buildings, on playgrounds or at guarded beaches.

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fees are required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Buttermilk Falls?

✅ Swimming is allowed
Swimming is allowed only in the natural pool below the falls when lifeguards are on duty, on a limited summer schedule; swimming in the gorge is prohibited.

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Late spring through fall, when the Gorge Trail is open (typically early May to early November). The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk, and the main falls sit in the lower park by the entrance lot.

Seasonal Access

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

Safety Information

Swimming is prohibited in the gorge; swim only in the pool below the falls when lifeguards are on duty. The Gorge Trail has many stone steps, which make it hard going for some visitors. Bow hunting for deer is allowed in season in designated sections of the park.

Know when to go.

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Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

The main entrance is at 106 E. Buttermilk Falls Rd., off NY 13 (Elmira Road) just south of Ithaca, and leads to the falls, the gorge trails and the swimming area. The upper entrance on Upper Buttermilk Falls Road serves the day use area, Pinnacle Rock, Lake Treman and the top of the gorge trails.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Park at the main entrance lot in the lower park for the falls and the bottom of the Gorge Trail, or at the upper entrance for the top of the gorge. A $10 per car vehicle entry fee is collected daily from April 1 to November 30, 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The $80 Empire Pass covers day-use entry at most state parks.

Elevation

457 feet above sea level

Coordinates

42.416060° N, -76.520520° W

Land Management

Buttermilk Falls State Park State Park

Managed by New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Visitor Tips & Gear

The swimming schedule is limited and changes each year: in 2026 it opened July 3, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays through Mondays and some weekdays, and the park expected it to close by mid-August. Call the park office at (607) 273-5761 to confirm swimming and trail status before you go.

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With 1.5 miles and 600 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.