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United States
New York
Tompkins County

Buttermilk Falls State Park

Easy hikes and walks in Buttermilk Falls State Park

4.8

(100)

1,147

hikers

71

hikes

Hiking in Buttermilk Falls State Park offers access to a landscape characterized by dramatic waterfalls, deep gorges, and tranquil woodlands. The park features Buttermilk Creek, which descends over 600 feet, creating a series of cascades and carving a rugged gorge. Trails navigate through these varied environments, including areas around a small lake and peaceful wetland meadows. The terrain includes layered Devonian shale and sandstone formations, providing diverse natural features for exploration.

Best easy hiking trails in Buttermilk Falls State Park

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Buttermilk Falls Gorge and Rim Trail Loop, a 1.0 mile (1.5 km) trail that takes 32 minutes to complete. This loop offers close-up views of the cascades and the gorge.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Lake Treman Loop, an easy 1.3 miles (2.1 km) path. This route circles Lake Treman, providing scenic hiking through woodlands.
  • Local hikers also love the Buttermilk Falls – Rim Trail loop from Buttermilk Falls State Park, a 1.9 miles (3.1 km) trail leading through the gorge rim, often completed in about 1 hour.
  • Hiking in Buttermilk Falls State Park is defined by cascading waterfalls, deep gorges, and peaceful woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
  • The routes in Buttermilk Falls State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1000 hikers have used komoot to explore Buttermilk Falls State Park's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 12, 2026

#1.

Buttermilk Falls Gorge and Rim Trail Loop

1.54km

00:32

130m

0m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

2.06km

00:33

20m

30m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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4.9

(12)

131

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Nick Helmholdt
June 5, 2025, Buttermilk Falls

Scenic waterfall

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Alex
May 24, 2025, Rim Trail

The Rim Trail, just about a mile long, leads visitors to breathtaking views of Buttermilk Creek as it drops 600 feet through a gorge on the eastern slope of the Cayuga Valley, at the southern edge of Ithaca. This trail is one of six featured in Buttermilk Falls State Park. The interconnected trail system has an earth surface marked with blue blazes. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful anytime.

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The Rim Trail, just about a mile long, leads visitors to breathtaking views of Buttermilk Creek as it drops 600 feet through a gorge on the eastern slope of the Cayuga Valley, at the southern edge of Ithaca. This trail is one of six featured in Buttermilk Falls State Park. The interconnected trail system has an earth surface marked with blue blazes. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful anytime.

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On the Gorge Trail, the stone "Pillar" is an outcropping known, polished by years of erosion. While here, enjoy the sounds of Buttermilk Creek and the cooler shaded area on hot summer days.

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Alex
September 17, 2024, Buttermilk Falls Overlook

Buttermilk Falls Overlook is easily accessible via a set of stone stairs resembling those found in a home, making the descent smooth and simple. A wooden sign labeled "Falls Overlook" marks the spot, offering views close to the water. The overlook brings hikers to the middle section of the falls, where the soothing sound of cascading water can be enjoyed.

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Buttermilk Falls State Park is a state park in Ithaca Township, New York, United States. The park covers 811 acres. The foundation for the park, like that of nearby Robert H. Treman State Park, was laid by Robert and Laura Treman in 1924. Address: 112 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA Hours of Operation: Open 24 hours a day Telephone number: +1 607-273-5761 Source wiki

Translated by Google

2

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Bonnie24
April 11, 2019, Buttermilk Falls

Great waterfall, detour worthwhile

Translated by Google

2

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in Buttermilk Falls State Park?

Buttermilk Falls State Park offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 50 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails allow you to explore the park's natural beauty at a comfortable pace.

What natural features can I expect to see on easy trails in Buttermilk Falls State Park?

Easy trails in Buttermilk Falls State Park showcase the park's dramatic landscapes. You'll encounter the park's namesake waterfalls, including the magnificent 165-foot main cascade, and the deep gorge carved by Buttermilk Creek. Many routes also lead through tranquil woodlands and past unique geological formations. The Buttermilk Falls Gorge and Rim Trail Loop, for example, offers close-up views of the cascades.

Are there any easy loop trails in Buttermilk Falls State Park?

Yes, Buttermilk Falls State Park features several easy loop trails perfect for a round trip. A popular option is the Buttermilk Falls Gorge and Rim Trail Loop, which provides diverse perspectives of the gorge and waterfalls. Another excellent choice is the Lake Treman Loop, offering scenic hiking through woodlands around the lake.

What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Buttermilk Falls State Park?

Buttermilk Falls State Park is beautiful year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and strong waterfall flows, while summer allows for swimming in the natural pool at the base of the main falls. Autumn offers stunning fall foliage, and even winter can provide serene, snow-dusted landscapes, though some trails may be slippery or closed due to ice. Always check park conditions before visiting, especially in colder months.

Are the easy trails in Buttermilk Falls State Park suitable for families with children?

Yes, many easy trails in Buttermilk Falls State Park are family-friendly. The park's diverse environments, from waterfalls to woodlands and even a natural swimming pool in summer, offer engaging experiences for children. Trails like the Lake Treman Loop are generally flat and well-suited for younger hikers.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Buttermilk Falls State Park?

Buttermilk Falls State Park is generally dog-friendly, but specific trail regulations may apply. It's always best to check the park's official guidelines regarding pets before your visit. Typically, dogs must be on a leash.

What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Buttermilk Falls State Park?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning waterfalls, the dramatic gorge views, and the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands. The variety of easy trails, like the Buttermilk Falls – Rim Trail loop, which offers different perspectives of the park's beauty, is also frequently highlighted.

Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots along the easy trails?

Absolutely. The easy trails often provide excellent vantage points for the park's cascades and the gorge. The Buttermilk Falls – Buttermilk Falls Overlook loop, for instance, is designed to lead you to prime overlook spots. You'll find numerous opportunities to admire the frothy main falls and the layered rock formations of the gorge.

Is there parking available for easy trail access in Buttermilk Falls State Park?

Yes, Buttermilk Falls State Park provides parking facilities. There is a lower parking lot near the main falls, which offers convenient access to many of the park's trails, including those leading to the natural pool and the Larch Meadow area. Parking fees may apply, so it's advisable to check the park's official website for current information.

What kind of terrain should I expect on easy hikes in Buttermilk Falls State Park?

While some trails in the park can be rocky or have stairs, the easy hikes generally feature more manageable terrain. You can expect well-maintained paths through woodlands, alongside the creek, and around Lake Treman. The Buttermilk Falls Overlook – Buttermilk Falls loop, for example, offers a relatively gentle experience while still providing scenic views.

Are there any wetland areas or unique ecosystems to explore on easy trails?

Yes, beyond the dramatic gorge and waterfalls, the park features Larch Meadows, a peaceful wetland area. While not explicitly listed in the provided routes, a nature trail traverses this marshy environment, offering a different ecological experience and a chance to observe diverse plant and animal life. This area provides a gentler, mile-long walk.

Most popular routes in Buttermilk Falls State Park

Waterfall hikes in Buttermilk Falls State Park

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