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The falls are just in from the main entrance to Buttermilk Falls State Park, which is on Elmira Road NY-13/34/96. On the Yelp map, that was to the northwest of the mapped location as of Aug 2026. The maps on the park website are pretty good, but the one called "Park Map" (1) doesn't put north at the top of the map, and (2) points about 40° off of true-north.
This is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. The Gorge Trail is a strenuous, uphill hike comprised mostly of stairs. The scenery is well worth the workout. The trail is exquisitely maintained. We returned on the Rim Trail, which was also very nice but lacked the spectacular beauty of the gorge views. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
My husband and I visited Buttermilk Falls State Park last week, when we were in the Finger Lakes for the Fourth of July. We arrived in the afternoon, paid the vehicle entry fee, and parked in the parking lot. After taking a look at the falls, which has a swimming area (open for swimming on summer weekends - check their website), and using the bathrooms by the falls, we started up the Buttermilk Falls Gorge Trail. The trail ascends about 600 feet from Buttermilk Falls, following Buttermilk Creek past pools, rocks, and smaller waterfalls. Around Pinnacle Rock (a 42-foot rock along the creek), you can turn back and head back down the same trail or cross the bridge over the creek and take the Rim Trail back to the falls/parking area. It was almost 100 degrees when we visited, so we opted to take the Gorge Trail back down as it appeared more shaded than the Rim Trail, which was getting a lot of afternoon sun. The trail was really beautiful and a great start for our holiday weekend in the Finger Lakes. I'd certainly love to return, hopefully next time wearing a swim suit so I can take dip in the pool at the base of the falls after a hike!
Located just on the southern edge of Ithaca, Buttermilk Falls named as early as 1866, as it was likened to "a mass of thick, frothy foam" is a wildly popular spot for tourists and local residents, especially during the height of summer where some of us visited this park. Formed by Buttermilk Creek as it flows down the steep valley side toward Cayuga Lake ranging in height from 5 to 35 feet and descending more than 500 feet in a series of cascades and rapids, a natural pool at the base of fall provides swimming with the feel of an old swimming hole that was closed today due to lack of life guards. Like many NY state parks, there are two entrances. We walked from the parking lot at the lower park and hiked up the picturesaque dog friendly Gorge Trail until the cross-over bridge. Then we returned back down the other side of the gorge on the less travelled Rim Trail. Bathrooms were clean with 4 showers. If one carries in food or drinks into the park, one must carry out as there are no trash cans. Parking was $10 and our picnic lunch made for an inexpensive, fabulous day, which we can recommend.
Beautiful park right off the road with easy access. Parking is $10 and worth it whether you want a relaxed stroll or a longer hike. Buttermilk Falls is right at the entrance and super easy to get to, with trails branching off from there. There's also swimming available in season when lifeguards are on duty. Overall, a very relaxing spot I loved visiting.
I went on a 2-mile hike with Nike today at Buttermilk Falls. It was very nice, especially on a hot day in upstate New York. I would definitely do it again! I thought it was an easy hike; just make sure to wear the right shoes. They test the water once a week to determine if it's safe to swim, and today it was. Bring sunglasses. Parking was free my cousin has a season pass.
Our second stop on our hiking adventure today, you enter the park and there is a $9 flat rate fee per car which goes towards the upkeep and park maintenance. I strongly suggest sturdy sneakers or walking shoes. There are very steep stairs and a steep incline uphill until you get towards the top where is levels out. Some part are more narrow and hard to navigate but I was impressed how well people kindly moved over and out of the way. I will say there were alot of families with smaller child that were letting their kids into the gorge which was a bit concerning but whatever. The views were immaculate and the trail for the most part was covered with shade so you aren't too hot. The biggest downside I would say is the parking lot is not painted and so many people couldn't park. Cars were blocked in and way too close so it was just inconsiderate.
We have a few days in the area and after visiting the farmers market, took a short drive here. It was cold, rainy, and windy when we visited so we opted to drive to the lower falls and take a brief view without paying the $9.00 entry fee, since it is visible from the entry drive. We then drove to the upper parking lot and really enjoyed the drive thru the fall foliage. A short walk from the parking lot is another small fall visible from a pedestrian bridge. We would have gladly stayed and payed the entry fee, had we been better prepared for the weather. Our next visit to the area I hope to spend the day exploring.
A beautiful park where you can go swimming and hiking. The hiking trail is not difficult and is beautiful during the summer and autumn.
Buttermilk Falls is huge and gorgeous!! The park is pretty easy to navigate and there are free maps and brochures near the parking lot. I hiked the gorge trail to rim which allowed me to see a ton of waterfalls and loop around to where I started and ended up being less than 2 miles There were a ton of stairs on the gorge path so I wouldn't suggest bringing small dogs or children if they can't handle climbing. With each set of stairs there was another beautiful view. Well worth the climb!
Hope you like stairs... this is nature's stair master. On vacay and didn't go to the gym or skipped leg day for the past year? Go to Buttermilk Falls. What's even worst is the people I went with told me about this place and for some weird reason I thought it was a restaurant that serves buttermilk pancakes or some sort of buttermilk goods. Now it's my fault for not clarifying and everyone specifically telling me to wear hiking boots. I was like weird but let's gooooooo... sadly there was no pancakes but a lot of waterfalls and stairs. I climbed up but I couldn't get back down. I live here now... one with nature... Fun fact, if you stay here past dark (which you shouldn't) and you hear what sounds like a grown man crying for pancakes... that's probably my ghost...
Spectacular trails around, under and over the falls. Buttermilk Falls State Park takes its name from the foaming cascade formed by Buttermilk Creek as it flows down the steep valley side toward Cayuga Lake. The upper park has a small lake, hiking trails through woodlands and along the gorge and rim, picnic areas & playing fields. I've never been to the lower park but understand there is a campground, natural pool, playing fields and Larch Meadows.
Absolutely beautiful park in the fall, I would love to see the waterfalls in the summer and winter. There's tons of trails to hike, lots to see. So many breathtaking views!
Great short walk along the buttermilk falls. There are quite a number of stairs involved as well as relatively steep paths. Overall the hike should be like an hour from lower falls to upper falls (taking photos and enjoying the view along the way), and half hour on the way back if walking straight no side tracking. You'll know you're at the end of you see the massive stone bridge. Restrooms available at lower falls and upper falls entrances. Ten dollar admission for the day, same ticket can be used for other state parks in the area read more
We stopped briefly to see the falls and there were lots of people swimming, picnicking and sunbathing during our visit. It's $10 to park but we used our ticket from our earlier visit to nearby Taughannock falls to get in. We didn't explore the whole park but I'd consider coming back to do so, to walk one of the trails. read more
We walked the North & South Rim Trails & they are all well maintained & well marked. No trails we saw looked especially difficult. Really good views of the many smaller waterfalls as well, of course, of Buttermilk. Ample parking and there are bathrooms & a commemorative water fountain at the main trail head. Arrive before late afternoon as one of the main trails gets quite dark because of the shadow of the hillside. Some folks will need walking sticks for the steps & the downhill side of the trail. Best to come in the Spring when the falls are fuller. You'll love being ensconced in the trees & the sounds of water. read more
The falls are just in from the main entrance to Buttermilk Falls State Park, which is on Elmira Road NY-13/34/96. On the Yelp map, that was to the northwest of the mapped location as of Aug 2026. The maps on the park website are pretty good, but the one called "Park Map" (1) doesn't put north at the top of the map, and (2) points about 40° off of true-north. read more
This is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. The Gorge Trail is a strenuous, uphill hike comprised mostly of stairs. The scenery is well worth the workout. The trail is exquisitely maintained. We returned on the Rim Trail, which was also very nice but lacked the spectacular beauty of the gorge views. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. read more
My husband and I visited Buttermilk Falls State Park last week, when we were in the Finger Lakes for the Fourth of July. We arrived in the afternoon, paid the vehicle entry fee, and parked in the parking lot. After taking a look at the falls, which has a swimming area (open for swimming on summer weekends - check their website), and using the bathrooms by the falls, we started up the Buttermilk Falls Gorge Trail. The trail ascends about 600 feet from Buttermilk Falls, following Buttermilk Creek past pools, rocks, and smaller waterfalls. Around Pinnacle Rock (a 42-foot rock along the creek), you can turn back and head back down the same trail or cross the bridge over the creek and take the Rim Trail back to the falls/parking area. It was almost 100 degrees when we visited, so we opted to take the Gorge Trail back down as it appeared more shaded than the Rim Trail, which was getting a lot of afternoon sun. The trail was really beautiful and a great start for our holiday weekend in the Finger Lakes. I'd certainly love to return, hopefully next time wearing a swim suit so I can take dip in the pool at the base of the falls after a hike! read more
Located just on the southern edge of Ithaca, Buttermilk Falls named as early as 1866, as it was likened to "a mass of thick, frothy foam" is a wildly popular spot for tourists and local residents, especially during the height of summer where some of us visited this park. Formed by Buttermilk Creek as it flows down the steep valley side toward Cayuga Lake ranging in height from 5 to 35 feet and descending more than 500 feet in a series of cascades and rapids, a natural pool at the base of fall provides swimming with the feel of an old swimming hole that was closed today due to lack of life guards. Like many NY state parks, there are two entrances. We walked from the parking lot at the lower park and hiked up the picturesaque dog friendly Gorge Trail until the cross-over bridge. Then we returned back down the other side of the gorge on the less travelled Rim Trail. Bathrooms were clean with 4 showers. If one carries in food or drinks into the park, one must carry out as there are no trash cans. Parking was $10 and our picnic lunch made for an inexpensive, fabulous day, which we can recommend. read more
Beautiful park right off the road with easy access. Parking is $10 and worth it whether you want a relaxed stroll or a longer hike. Buttermilk Falls is right at the entrance and super easy to get to, with trails branching off from there. There's also swimming available in season when lifeguards are on duty. Overall, a very relaxing spot I loved visiting. read more
1 year ago
I went on a 2-mile hike with Nike today at Buttermilk Falls. It was very nice, especially on a hot day in upstate New York. I would definitely do it again! I thought it was an easy hike; just make sure to wear the right shoes. They test the water once a week to determine if it's safe to swim, and today it was. Bring sunglasses. Parking was free my cousin has a season pass. read more
Our second stop on our hiking adventure today, you enter the park and there is a $9 flat rate fee per car which goes towards the upkeep and park maintenance. I strongly suggest sturdy sneakers or walking shoes. There are very steep stairs and a steep incline uphill until you get towards the top where is levels out. Some part are more narrow and hard to navigate but I was impressed how well people kindly moved over and out of the way. I will say there were alot of families with smaller child that were letting their kids into the gorge which was a bit concerning but whatever. The views were immaculate and the trail for the most part was covered with shade so you aren't too hot. The biggest downside I would say is the parking lot is not painted and so many people couldn't park. Cars were blocked in and way too close so it was just inconsiderate. read more
3 months ago
We have a few days in the area and after visiting the farmers market, took a short drive here. It was cold, rainy, and windy when we visited so we opted to drive to the lower falls and take a brief view without paying the $9.00 entry fee, since it is visible from the entry drive. We then drove to the upper parking lot and really enjoyed the drive thru the fall foliage. A short walk from the parking lot is another small fall visible from a pedestrian bridge. We would have gladly stayed and payed the entry fee, had we been better prepared for the weather. Our next visit to the area I hope to spend the day exploring. read more
Buttermilk Falls is huge and gorgeous!! The park is pretty easy to navigate and there are free maps and brochures near the parking lot. I hiked the gorge trail to rim which allowed me to see a ton of waterfalls and loop around to where I started and ended up being less than 2 miles There were a ton of stairs on the gorge path so I wouldn't suggest bringing small dogs or children if they can't handle climbing. With each set of stairs there was another beautiful view. Well worth the climb! read more
Hope you like stairs... this is nature's stair master. On vacay and didn't go to the gym or skipped leg day for the past year? Go to Buttermilk Falls. What's even worst is the people I went with told me about this place and for some weird reason I thought it was a restaurant that serves buttermilk pancakes or some sort of buttermilk goods. Now it's my fault for not clarifying and everyone specifically telling me to wear hiking boots. I was like weird but let's gooooooo... sadly there was no pancakes but a lot of waterfalls and stairs. I climbed up but I couldn't get back down. I live here now... one with nature... Fun fact, if you stay here past dark (which you shouldn't) and you hear what sounds like a grown man crying for pancakes... that's probably my ghost... read more
Spectacular trails around, under and over the falls. Buttermilk Falls State Park takes its name from the foaming cascade formed by Buttermilk Creek as it flows down the steep valley side toward Cayuga Lake. The upper park has a small lake, hiking trails through woodlands and along the gorge and rim, picnic areas & playing fields. I've never been to the lower park but understand there is a campground, natural pool, playing fields and Larch Meadows. read more
1 year ago
Absolutely beautiful park in the fall, I would love to see the waterfalls in the summer and winter. There's tons of trails to hike, lots to see. So many breathtaking views! read more
This was one of the best hiking experiences we've ever had, surrounded by breathtaking sights and soothing sounds. Be prepared for plenty of steps, as it can be physically demanding. Along the way, there are plenty of places to rest, and you can even enjoy the water if you're careful. The final waterfall is truly worth it, offering a moment of pure relaxation. A must-visit! read more
2 years ago
A hike that ends with a natural pool that you can take a dip in? SIGN. ME. UP! We hiked about two miles down from the Buttermilk Trailhead at Firelight Camps to the swimming area. It took around an hour and a half, wasn't too steep and was very scenic the entire time. It's also mostly shaded which was a huge bonus on a super hot day. The trail is well marked and easy to navigate. There is also a park area with a bathroom in the middle of the trail. There's been a bit of a drought in the area and some of the falls are dried up, so that was a bit of a bummer. But towards the end of the hike, as you get closer to the end the falls are in full force. I'll also add that the swimming area is super legitimate - there was even a lifeguard on duty! Bring bug spray, plenty of water and sturdy shoes for some of those downhill moments. Definitely a must-do in Ithaca! read more
1 year ago
Had a wonderful trip out to Buttermilk Falls this past weekend and always look forward to any opportunity I get to visit. From the stunning views to the heart pumping hikes, there's a lot to love here. This time, we started the uphill hike up the gorge trail stairs, met up with the best trail that is more wooded, and then came back down the falls using the rim trail. It's all super clearly marked here and a great way to see all the park has to offer. There was a downed tree that stopped us short on the bear trail, so all in it took us right around two hours to hike all the way through. If you're in the Ithaca area, this is absolutely unmissable. I saw kids making their way up the gorge trail (though I don't really know how) and depending on the type of dog you have this might not be the best option for them. Or use the rim trail instead of the muddy/wet/slippery rim trail. Entrance fee is $9 and I recommend getting there before 11am if possible on busy summer weekend days. Grateful to take in this beauty and can't wait until I'm able to climb those gorge stairs again! read more
2 years ago
If there's such a thing as a "beginner's" waterfall, this is it. Yes, there's a LOT of stairs (it's a shelf waterfall system) but there are also many places to rest, good canopy shads, and handrails. The bottom of the park has a picnic area and a place to wade. If you manage to hike the whole system it connects to other parks. Just don't do what I did and wear your normal sneakers during a downpour. The mountain is slate, you will end up climbing down on your butt to avoid falling over the one area without a fence. read more
6 years ago
Such a pretty pretty park! You can swim and hike the gorges here about a 1.25 miles around the entire gores. It's nice to start up the gorge trail and then down the rim trail but because of covid right now they have you starting up the rim and down the gorge which isn't bad either. The weather was 91 degrees out and water as only 65 so too cold for me in July. The park is a great spot for gorgeous pictures and is pretty safe and easy hike for anyone in decent shape. It is often over looked as a park to visit in Ithaca too so usually not over crowded. read more
3 years ago
Absolutely stunning state park. The fall, the trees, and the trail were mind-blowing. We followed the trail along the creek, and the falls were fantastic. We were a large family with a kid and a dog, so we couldn't reach the end of the trail and had to return, but it was already a wonderful experience. We will revisit this area if we come back to Ithaca in the future read more
6 years ago
Huge park with lots to explore. We first did the trail around the lake and enjoyed the peace and quiet. We even saw a heron! Then we did the waterfall trail. Unfortunately, due to a rather dry summer, the waterfalls weren't at their full glory but still very pretty. It's an easy to moderate level hike and the trails were very clean. I will say it got a tad crowded near the falls and made it difficult to distance. read more
6 years ago
I love it here! I have been here many times and really like hiking here. This is always a popular spot however, because you can easily see the falls from the road. So, it ends up being crowded any time you stop by. There are stairs you can take for a longer trail and for more views of the falls. There are picnic tables and spots to sit and enjoy the scenery from the bottom of the falls, as well. read more
4 years ago
Such a pretty hike! Didn't know what to expect since a lot of reviews simply compare it to Watkins Glen and say it's shorter. Well, firstly the Falls are right there as soon as you pull up into the parking lot which I thought was really cool! Instant gratification. But then what is the point of going on the hike you say? So the part you see from the parking lot is just the very last bit of the falls and certainly not the most impressive part by far. To see that you need to follow the gorge trail which goes right along the falls and is an upward climb made quite comfortable by the many steps constructed or cut out into the rocks. Apparently the whole hike is about 7 miles long, but I chose to do approx a mile in and the same mile back for a quick version since we were on a schedule and totally loved it! It's also dog friendly as long as your pup is on a leash. Highly recommend! read more
It's called Buttermilk because of the foaming cascade. How delicious! We made a quick stop here to see the water fall. When we visited the waterfall was very calm and peaceful. I'm not sure if it like this all year round. This location is accessible. Parking and entrance are free. You can drive in and see the waterfall from your car if you don't want to walk. But we got out and strolled around a bit. It's a nice place to picnic too. They have some benches around. It was really quiet and no one was around so I would take precaution. There is a guard station but no one was in. They do have public restrooms available. read more
I haven't been to this falls in many years so I wanted to check it out again. At this time of year the parking is free. My friend and I wanted to walk down to the base of the falls but it was closed. We were able to walk the rim trail. I have to say this is not an easy trail, many roots and steep hills on this trail. It is an easy trail to follow and view the upper falls. I want to come back when I can go to the base of the falls. read more
Wow! There are a lot of steps to climb to get to the end... but it is a gorgeous gift of nature, with beautiful waterfall after waterfall along the trek.. saw several folks picnicking on the grounds and a super nice kiddie playground. If you like woodsy trails, built-in steps for the climb, and cool waterfalls... this is it! A bit pricey parking fee. read more
6 years ago
2 years ago
Buttermilk is my all-time favorite state park in NY and maybe even in the U.S. as a whole! It's always so beautiful there, but it's incredibly gorgeous in the fall. It's a "can't miss" park if you are in or near the Ithaca area! There are a lot of steps up and down on the gorge trail, but it's so worth it for this beautiful park. There are so many waterfalls throughout the hike, that you will be left in awe the whole time! read more
4 years ago
It took us about 90 minutes from Rochester on several one lane roads. It was a long drive but worth it. We parked near the park office where there are bathrooms and you can see the fall. Parking is $8 but if you're with a senior it's free on weekdays! You can start your hike along Ridge trail and come back on Gorge. To prevent the spread of Covid, the trails are supposedly one way but some people chose not to heed the signs. ABeware. The Ridge trail starts with a steep hill. Once you get past that, it gets much easier. According to AllTrail, the loop is 1.6 miles but that incline made it seem longer. I really enjoyed Gorge trail as you walk along water falls and the sound of chirping birds. I highly recommend coming here. If you have time, visit Taughannock Falls State Park which is close by. read more
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More info about Buttermilk Falls State Park
106 E Buttermilk Falls Rd
Ithaca, NY 14850
Directions
(607) 273-5761
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https://parks.ny.gov/visit/state-parks/buttermilk-falls-state-park
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Ask the Community - Buttermilk Falls State Park
Is it open right now? Can we BBQ w our own grill?
It is open. I didn't see anyone with their own grill so I am not sure.
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