Buttermilk Falls
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
Best Seasons to Visit
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 provides opportunities for swimming in designated areas.
About Hiking Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Buttermilk Falls State Park near Ithaca, New York. The waterfall cascades down a series of rocky steps, creating a stunning visual display, especially after rainfall or during spring snowmelt.
Height: 165 feet
Location & Access
Getting There
Buttermilk Falls is located in Buttermilk Falls State Park, just south of Ithaca, New York. The main entrance is off Route 13, and the falls are easily accessible from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking lot near the base of the falls. Parking is typically available, but it can fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
696 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.048679° N, -75.711295° W
Trail Information
Accessibility
The base of the falls is accessible from the parking area, but the Gorge Trail includes steep steps and is not wheelchair accessible.
Trail Description
The Gorge Trail at Buttermilk Falls State Park takes visitors along the cascading falls and through a scenic gorge. The trail includes stone steps and some steep sections, offering close-up views of the waterfall and surrounding rock formations.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a beautiful series of cascades, lush greenery in the summer, and vibrant foliage in the fall. The trail may be slippery when wet, so proper footwear is recommended.
Seasonal Closures
The Gorge Trail may be closed during winter or after heavy rainfall for safety reasons. Check with the park office for current conditions.
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.
Visitor Tips
Tips for Your Visit
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be uneven and slippery. Bring water and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
What to Bring
- sturdy hiking shoes
- water
- camera
- snacks
- weather-appropriate clothing
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
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include Taughannock Falls State Park, Robert H. Treman State Park, and the city of Ithaca with its restaurants and shops.
Wildlife
The park is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also see fish in the streams.
Seasonal Closures
The Gorge Trail may be closed during winter or after heavy rainfall for safety reasons. Check with the park office for current conditions.