AboutSubmit a waterfall
✓ Sourced from the managing agency's own page

Buttermilk Falls

📍 Ithaca, NY🥾 Trail length not published🎟 $10 per vehicle (Apr–Nov, 6am–6:30pm)

An easy-to-reach easy waterfall in upstate New York.

Getting there

easyDog-friendlySwimming allowed

$10 per vehicle (Apr–Nov, 6am–6:30pm)

Our take

Entry or parking: $10 per vehicle (Apr–Nov, 6am–6:30pm). Difficulty: easy.

Dogs allowed (usually leashed). Swimming is allowed.

Planning your visit

Best time to go

Spring to fall is best for waterfall viewing.

Who it suits

Good for

  • an easy walk to a waterfall
  • bringing a leashed dog
  • a summer swimming hole
  • gorge and park scenery worth the day-use fee

Common questions

Is there a fee to visit Buttermilk Falls?

$10 per vehicle (Apr–Nov, 6am–6:30pm)

How do I get to Buttermilk Falls?

The managing agency's page (linked below) has the current trailhead and route details — round-trip distance wasn't published when we checked.

Can I bring my dog to Buttermilk Falls?

Yes, per the managing agency's own page — but check current leash rules before you go.

Is swimming allowed at Buttermilk Falls?

Yes, per the managing agency — conditions and safety vary by season, so use judgment regardless.

Buttermilk Falls in Finger Lakes

We track 7 waterfalls in Finger Lakes.

Other waterfalls near Ithaca

There are 3 other waterfalls we track in Tompkins. All Finger Lakes waterfalls →

Quick facts

HeightNot published
TrailNot published
Difficultyeasy
Fee / permit$10 per vehicle (Apr–Nov, 6am–6:30pm)
Managing agencyNYS Parks — Buttermilk Falls State Park
DogsAllowed
SwimmingAllowed
ADA accessNot published
CountyTompkins
RegionFinger Lakes
Official pageView source ↗

Source

parks.ny.gov

NYS Parks official park detail page, checked 2026-08-29. Page states seasonal swimming (Fri/Sat/Sun/Mon and select weekdays, lifeguard-permitting) but did not state an official height for the main falls, so left null.

Checked August 2026.