🌤 Weather at Upper Buttermilk Falls State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26–72 °F | 59–86 °F | 33–77 °F | 17–40 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Troy L&d, 10 mi away, elevation 15 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 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 in New York: Peebles Island State Park and Grafton Lakes State Park. See the full New York state parks guide.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for New York state parks online at newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Upper Buttermilk Falls State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 ft required, pet under control at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on guarded beaches, boardwalks, pools or spray-grounds
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- No uniform statewide rule — pets are prohibited in buildings and most cabins, but some parks designate pet-friendly cabin areas (e.g. Letchworth Cabin Area C); check with the individual park
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Proof of rabies vaccination required upon request; maximum two pets per campsite; some parks (e.g. Wildwood State Park) do not allow pets at all
Are dogs allowed at Upper Buttermilk Falls State Park?
Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ny.gov. More: New York state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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