🏆 Official Guide: Buttermilk Falls State Park — A stunning Finger Lakes gorge park south of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, featuring a dramatic gorge trail with cascading waterfalls, a natural stream-fed swimming pool (seasonal lifeguards), Lake Treman in the upper park, camping, and multiple hiking trails through classic Finger Lakes geology.
Buttermilk Falls State Park is one of the crown jewels of Ithaca’s spectacular gorge parks — featuring a series of cascading waterfalls along Buttermilk Creek that drop over 500 feet through a lush, mossy gorge. The park is divided into a lower park (main falls, swimming pool, campground) and upper park (Lake Treman, picnic areas, quieter trails), offering both dramatic gorge hiking and relaxing lakeside recreation.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | South of Ithaca, Tompkins County, NY |
| Swimming | Natural stream-fed pool — seasonal lifeguards (late May–early Sep) |
| Gorge Trail | Open ~May through November — closed in winter |
| Upper Park | Lake Treman — picnic areas, quieter trails |
| Contact | (607) 273-5761 |
Trails
| Trail | Details |
|---|---|
| Gorge Trail | 0.65 mi — steep stone stairs, waterfalls, rock formations |
| Rim Trail | 0.82 mi — loops with Gorge Trail, top-of-gorge views |
| Bear Trail | Connects lower + upper park areas |
| Lake Treman Trail | Upper park — lakeside walk |
| Owl Creek Trail | Woodland hiking |
| Larch Meadow Trail | Meadow + forest |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Swimming | Stream-fed pool at base of falls — lifeguarded seasonally |
| Hiking | Gorge, Rim, and woodland trails |
| Camping | Lower park campground — tent + small RV |
| Picnicking | Upper park at Lake Treman |
| Fishing | Lake Treman (upper park) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the gorge trail open year-round?
No — the Gorge Trail typically opens in early May and closes in early November when freezing temperatures create dangerous ice. Always check the NY State Parks website or call (607) 273-5761 for current trail status.
Can you swim in the gorge?
No — swimming is strictly prohibited in the gorge and creek outside the designated pool. The only permitted swimming area is the lifeguarded natural pool at the base of the main falls, typically open late May through early September.
More parks nearby: Peebles Island State Park is a short drive away, while Crown Point State Historic Site lies a short drive away.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for New York state parks online at newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com.
Park Location
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