Majestic Buttermilk Falls State Park: A Gorge Hike Through New York’s Wild Beauty, NY

Buttermilk Falls State Park, an 811‑acre treasure in Ithaca, New York, greeted us on October 25, 2023 with one of the most dramatic entrances of any state park in the region. The moment you step out of the car, you’re met with the roaring cascade of Buttermilk Creek — a wide, powerful waterfall that tumbles down natural stone terraces and fills the air with mist. It’s impossible not to stop and stare.

We climbed the staircase beside the falls to begin the Gorge and Rim Trail Loop. Even though rain followed us throughout our upstate New York trip, the wet weather made the gorge feel even more alive. The creek ran fuller, the waterfalls thundered louder, and the autumn leaves glowed against the dark, rain‑soaked rock walls.

The Gorge Trail is the star of the park: a moderate 1.6‑mile loop featuring ten waterfalls, graceful stone bridges, narrow canyon walls, and moss‑covered ledges. Every turn reveals another photogenic scene — a swirling pool, a stepped cascade, or a towering cliff carved by centuries of rushing water. The Rim Trail offers a quieter return route through the forest, with glimpses of the gorge below and peaceful stretches of hardwood trees.

I was grateful for my hiking stick, especially on the many steps that can be slick after rain. Despite the climb, this trail is absolutely worth the effort. It’s compact yet packed with scenery, history, and classic Finger Lakes charm. If you can manage the steps, the Buttermilk Falls Gorge and Rim Loop is one of the most rewarding short hikes in upstate New York.

This park is absolutely stunning in the fall. I highly recommend a visit when you’re in the area. Make sure to bring your camera or your phone, because every corner feels like a postcard waiting to happen. The waterfalls seem to glow against the golds, and oranges of the season, and the entire gorge transforms into a vibrant tunnel of color. Even simple moments — a leaf drifting across the creek, mist rising from the cascades, sunlight filtering through the canopy — become unforgettable scenes. The cacophony of colors, the crisp air, and the peaceful sound of rushing water make this park a truly magical autumn experience.

If You Go

Start at the main entrance — The main parking area sits directly beside the large entrance waterfall, making it easy to begin your hike right at the base of the cascade.
Parking options — The lower park entrance offers a sizable lot near the swimming area and the base of the falls. Additional parking is available at the upper entrance off West King Road, which provides quicker access to the Rim Trail.
Restrooms — Restrooms are located near the lower parking area and the seasonal swimming area. Facilities at the upper entrance are typically open during peak months.
Hike the Gorge & Rim Loop — This moderate 1.6‑mile loop includes many steps. The Gorge Trail features waterfalls and stone bridges; the Rim Trail offers a quieter forest walk.
Use a hiking stick — Steps and rock surfaces can be slick, especially after rain. A hiking stick adds stability.
Wear waterproof shoes — The Finger Lakes region is often wet, and the gorge trail includes damp rock ledges and muddy patches.
Visit in fall — Autumn foliage adds spectacular color to the gorge, and waterfalls often run stronger after seasonal rains.
Explore nearby parks — Robert H. Treman State Park and Taughannock Falls State Park are minutes away and offer equally dramatic gorge hikes.