Gorge Trail at Buttermilk Falls

Lower Buttermilk Falls
5.0
4 Reviews
Gorge Trail at Buttermilk Falls
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Details

Distance
1.38 miles
Elevation Gain
472 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back

Features

Wildflowers
Waterfall
Food Nearby
Dog Friendly
Romantic
Family Friendly
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About this place

Added by Jake Sells

For trail of never-ending, cascading waterfalls, take a hike for a gorge-ous scene of what the Finger Lakes Region is best known for.

The Gorge Trail starts to the right at the base of the last cascading waterfall you see as you enter the park. From here you begin hiking into the heart of the gorge following Buttermilk Creek to a bridge where you can turn around or continue exploring.

The trail features several large cascading falls around every corner. The trail is mostly a stone path which has several strenuous stair climbs. This shouldn't be a problem for families with rests in between at key lookout points overlooking the falls.

The Gorge Trail is an out and back trail totaling 1.4 miles, The Rim Trail however, is an alternative trail on the way back which follows from atop the gorge instead of through it back the way you came.

PARKING
Because this is a NYS Park, there is a per car entrance fee $ which is paid at the park entrance (well worth it.


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    Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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    Tara Schatz
    11/23/2020
    Another amazing state park in the Finger Lakes
    The gorge trail is amazing and far less crowded than the famous Watkins Glen State Park. What Buttermilk Falls has that Watkins Glen doesn't ...
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    Joyce de Leon
    10/16/2018
    Great little hike
    The waterfalls were so pretty!! The climb up the stairs gave a good little heart pump, but nothing too extreme. It was a nice ...
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    Rochelle OConnell
    8/31/2017
    Great Summer Oasis
    I loved this state park! Upon first entering the park, you're greeted with the Buttermilk Waterfall, which is stunning! Easy hiking, a steady incline ...
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    Janet Thomas
    6/21/2016
    Beautiful Falls
    Love the gorge trail, very scenic and the cascading falls are beautiful! Great hike for the whole family!
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