Overview
Here is a complete guide to hiking the Eternal Flame Falls. The Eternal Flame Falls is a truly captivating natural wonder, featuring an enchanting eight-inch flame burning steadily behind a 35-foot waterfall. This unique phenomenon is fueled by a natural gas seep that sustains the flame, believed to have been ignited thousands of years ago. With only nine natural eternal flames in the world, this rare spectacle is a must-see for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Check out this link for more history on the Eternal Flame.
Trail Location: The Eternal Flame trailhead parking is located at Chestnut Ridge Road, Orchard Park, NY
Distance: 1.2 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 137 ft
Total Hike Time: 45 minutes (includes enjoying the falls and flame before hiking back up)
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Dog Friendly: Yes
Fun Facts
🔥There are 9 eternal flames in the world
🔥Flame is in a 35ft waterfall
🔥Flame is 8 inches high
🔥Some believe it was lit thousands of years ago
Eternal Flame: About The Trail
The trail to the Eternal Flame Falls is a moderate 1.2-mile out-and-back hike that offers an adventurous and rewarding experience. The moderate difficulty is due to the presence of stairs and a VERY slippery creek bed that you’ll traverse to reach the falls. Waterproof footwear is essential for navigating the slick shale rock, water crossings, and muddy sections of the trail.
At the trailhead, you’ll begin on a well-maintained gravel path that transitions into a packed dirt trail. Be mindful of exposed roots along the way to avoid tripping. The trail is clearly marked with small signs featuring flame symbols placed just above eye level, making them easy to follow.
As you progress, the path skirts a steep ravine and leads to a set of stairs equipped with railings to help guide you safely up and down. At the base of the stairs, keep left. This section of the trail is particularly muddy and slippery, so proceed with caution. You’ll cross the creek bed multiple times and navigate around some fallen trees before reaching the breathtaking destination: the falls and the eternal flame.
Take your time to soak in the magical scene of the flame perfectly nestled behind the cascading water, all while surrounded by the serene sounds of nature. When you’re ready, retrace your steps to return to the trailhead, taking care to enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.
Eternal Flame Parking
Trailhead parking is conveniently located at Chestnut Ridge Road in Orchard Park, NY. Parking is free, and no special passes are required to hike the trail. Simply type “Eternal Flames Trailhead” into Google or Apple Maps, and it will guide you directly to the parking area.
The trail can get quite busy, especially during peak hours, so I recommend visiting in the morning to enjoy a quieter, more serene experience.
Eternal Flame: What To Bring
First, always check the weather before heading out. Understanding the conditions is crucial for determining the clothing and gear you’ll need to bring. Make sure to pack appropriately to stay comfortable and safe.
Additionally, ensure you’ve packed the 10 essentials for any outdoor adventure. These items are key to being prepared for the unexpected. For a detailed breakdown of the 10 essentials, click on the “10 Essentials Link” to take you to the article.
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