Buttermilk Falls State Park
A waterfall park just south of town, where milky-white water cascades down a rock slope. The gorge trail links more than ten falls and pools.
Buttermilk Falls State Park lies right beside Route 13, just south of Ithaca. The main falls are visible as soon as you park. The water foams down the tilted rock slope, and the falls are named for their resemblance to buttermilk. The Gorge Trail climbs about 1.2 km up stone steps through the gorge, passing more than ten waterfalls and deep pools. From the top, you can loop back on the Rim Trail. The whole visit takes about 1–1.5 hours. In summer, the natural pool below the falls is open for swimming when lifeguards are on duty. Vehicle entry costs about $10. The gorge trail closes from November until the following spring. The park is only about 3 km from downtown, which makes it a good choice for visitors with limited time.
Opening hours
Sunrise to sunset; gorge trail closed in winter
Nearby sights
- Ithaca Commons
- Moosewood Restaurant
- Ithaca Farmers Market
- Sciencenter
- Cascadilla Gorge Trail
- Ithaca Falls
- Stewart Park
- Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art