Named for the impressive cascade that pours from Buttermilk Creek, the main waterfall is at the bottom of a beautiful gorge cut by erosion after glaciers receded from Central New York. As you hike up beside the falls and along the gorge trail, there are several waterfalls to see.
The several hundred randomly spaced and often steep stairs of the gorge trail are a great cardiovascular workout.
Some hikers may prefer to enter from the Upper Park as the Gorge Trail offers some rocky terrain (you will want to wear proper footwear), but on the way to the large falls you will see nine small cascades and several interesting rock formations, which make the hike worth the extra effort.
Less ambitious hikers can avoid the ascent by beginning at Upper Buttermilk Park and walking down the gorge to be picked up at the Lower Park. The trailhead to the upper trail is across the street from the entrance to Upper Buttermilk Park.
