Eternal Flame Falls
Natural gas burns continuously in a rock cave behind a small waterfall. This scene of water and fire is tucked at the end of a forest trail in Chestnut Ridge Park.
The waterfall is located in Chestnut Ridge Park, about 25 kilometers from downtown. Natural gas constantly seeps from shale fissures behind the waterfall, forming a cluster of small flames that burn year-round and complement the water curtain. Research shows the gas content here is unusually high. The Eternal Flame Trail runs about 1.5 kilometers round trip from the park parking lot. The second half requires descending into the gorge and wading through shallow streams. It is slippery after rain, so wear non-slip shoes. The flames are occasionally extinguished by water or wind, and visitors often bring lighters to relight them. The park is free, but in winter the trail can be dangerous when icy.
Opening hours
Park open from sunrise to sunset
Nearby sights
- Highmark Stadium
- Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
- Silo City
- Larkinville
- Buffalo Central Terminal
- Buffalo RiverWorks
- Canalside
- Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park