Buttermilk Falls State Park
Buttermilk Falls State Park is a Finger Lakes treasure just southwest of Ithaca—home to the spectacular 165-foot Buttermilk Falls and one of the most dramatic gorge hikes in New York. As Buttermilk Creek cascades 600 feet through towering cliffs toward Cayuga Lake, it creates a series of 10 stunning waterfalls and natural swimming holes.
Hike the historic Gorge Trail (with CCC-built stone staircases from the 1930s), cool off in the natural swimming pool at the base of the falls, and stay overnight in cabins or campsites surrounded by woodland beauty.
Buttermilk Falls is part of Ithaca’s famous “gorges” landscape—and delivers the full experience in one stunning park.
Park Fast Facts
| 📍 Location | Ithaca, Tompkins County, NY |
| 🗺️ Region | Finger Lakes |
| 💦 Main Falls | 165 feet |
| 🏔️ Gorge Depth | 600 feet |
| 🥾 Trail Miles | ~8 miles |
| 📞 Phone | (607) 273-5761 |
Waterfalls
Buttermilk Creek creates 10 waterfalls as it plunges 600 feet toward Cayuga Lake:
| Waterfall | Height | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 💦 Buttermilk Falls | 165 ft | The famous cascade! Viewable from base pool |
| 💦 9 Upper Cascades | Various | Series of falls along Gorge Trail |
The falls get their name from the foaming, “buttermilk-like” appearance as water rushes over the rocks!
Hiking Trails
| Trail | Miles | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 💦 Gorge Trail | 0.65 | 600ft descent, CCC stone stairs, falls views! |
| 🏔️ Rim Trail | 0.82 | Loop with Gorge Trail, clifftop views |
| 🐻 Bear Trail | 0.67 | Woodland connector |
| 🌊 Lake Treman Trail | 1.29 | To Treman Lake |
⚠️ Note: Gorge trails may have seasonal closures. Stay on marked trails—rocks are slippery!
Swimming
One of the park’s best features: a natural swimming pool at the base of Buttermilk Falls!
- 🏊 Dammed pool at falls base
- 👀 Swim with waterfall views!
- 🛟 Lifeguards (late June – mid-August)
- ⚠️ No swimming in gorge itself
Camping & Cabins
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Tent/RV Sites | Mid-May to mid-October |
| 🏠 Cabins | Available, 2-night min off-peak |
| 📅 Reservations | Up to 9 months in advance |
CCC History
The park’s stone walls, staircases, and structures were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s—a beautiful piece of Depression-era craftsmanship!
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Buttermilk Falls?
Buttermilk Falls is 165 feet tall, making it one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Finger Lakes region. It’s the last of 10 waterfalls along Buttermilk Creek as it descends 600 feet toward Cayuga Lake.
Can you swim at Buttermilk Falls State Park?
Yes! The park has a natural swimming pool at the base of the falls—a dammed area where you can swim with views of the 165-foot cascade! Lifeguards are on duty from late June to mid-August. Note: swimming in the gorge itself is prohibited.
Are there cabins at Buttermilk Falls?
Yes! The park offers cabins and tent/RV camping from mid-May to mid-October. A 2-night minimum stay applies for cabins during off-peak season. Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance and are highly recommended.
How difficult is the Gorge Trail?
The Gorge Trail is strenuous but rewarding—a 0.65-mile trail with a 600-foot descent on historic CCC-built stone staircases. Combined with the 0.82-mile Rim Trail, it makes a perfect loop. Be prepared for steep sections and slippery rocks!
Why is it called Buttermilk Falls?
The falls get their name from the foaming, white appearance of the water as it cascades over the rocks—resembling buttermilk! This “churning” effect is especially dramatic after rainfall.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes. A vehicle entrance fee is charged from approximately April/May through November. Empire Pass holders get free entry. The fee helps maintain the trails and historic CCC structures.
💦 Experience Ithaca’s Famous Gorges
Hike through a 600-foot gorge, swim beneath a 165-foot waterfall, and stay in historic cabins—Buttermilk Falls State Park delivers the full Finger Lakes experience!
