Discover the Natural Beauty of Buttermilk Falls State Park
Explore Buttermilk Falls State Park: A Natural Wonderland of Waterfalls, Hiking Trails, and Scenic Picnic Spots in Ithaca, New York.
Buttermilk Falls State Park in Ithaca, New York, is a breathtaking destination for nature lovers, featuring stunning waterfalls, lush hiking trails, and picturesque picnic areas. Explore this serene park to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Finger Lakes region.
A brief summary to Buttermilk Falls State Park
- 106 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, New York, 14850, US
- +1607-273-5761
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-7:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-7:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-7:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-7:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and catch the beautiful sunrise over the falls.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as some trails can be steep and rocky.
- Pack a picnic and take advantage of the designated areas for a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature.
- Don't forget your camera; the park's landscapes are perfect for photography, especially after rainfall.
- Check for seasonal events or guided tours for a more enriching experience of the park's natural history.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Downtown Ithaca, locate the nearest bus stop on State Street. Board the TCAT bus route 11, which heads towards Buttermilk Falls State Park. The fare is $1.50 for a single ride, and you can pay with cash or a TCAT bus pass. The ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and you will want to get off at the Buttermilk Falls State Park stop. After exiting the bus, follow the signs to the park entrance.
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Walking and Hiking
If you're feeling adventurous and want to enjoy the outdoors, you can walk to Buttermilk Falls State Park from Downtown Ithaca. Start at the Commons area and head southwest on Cayuga Street. Continue on this street until you reach the intersection with Buttermilk Falls Road. Turn right onto Buttermilk Falls Road. The park entrance will be about 1.5 miles ahead. This route is approximately a 30-40 minute walk and offers beautiful views along the way.
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Bicycle
For those who prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from a local rental shop in Downtown Ithaca. Follow the same route as the walking directions: head southwest on Cayuga Street, then turn right onto Buttermilk Falls Road. The bike ride will take around 15-20 minutes, depending on your speed. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules. When you arrive at the park, there are bike racks available for you to secure your bike.
Discover more about Buttermilk Falls State Park
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