Eternal Flame Falls — the eternal flame hidden behind a waterfall This place is truly something special. Inside Chestnut Ridge Park, there is a hiking trail that takes about 30 minutes to walk in before you reach a small waterfall. The most magical part is that behind the waterfall curtain, there is a small flame burning continuously, known as the “eternal flame.” The trail itself is not very difficult, but the area near the waterfall can be slippery, so proper non-slip shoes are recommended. The flame is caused by natural gas seeping from the ground. It can occasionally go out, but people sometimes relight it. The best time to visit is around sunset. Seeing water and fire existing together in the same place is truly breathtaking and feels like a reminder of nature’s incredible power. The forest is full of chipmunks, completely unbothered by people walking past. My cat was extremely excited the whole time, ready to chase them at any moment—I had to keep stopping her the entire way.
Eternal Flame Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Eternal Flame Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Eternal Flame Falls famous?
Eternal Flame Falls is famous for a small natural gas seep behind the waterfall that produces a visible flame year-round (when lit). This rare geological phenomenon occurs where natural gas escapes through shale fractures, creating one of the few places in the world where fire and water coexist.
Can you swim at Eternal Flame Falls?
No. The falls are small and located in a narrow gorge; swimming is not a typical activity here. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Eternal Flame Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on trails in Chestnut Ridge Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Eternal Flame Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free. No entry fee or permit required for Chestnut Ridge Park or the Eternal Flame Falls trail. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Eternal Flame Falls?
Free parking available at Chestnut Ridge Park. The trailhead is accessed from the park's main area; parking capacity is moderate. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Eternal Flame Falls?
About 1.2 km / 0.75 mi return from the parking area to the falls via a moderate trail through Shale Creek Preserve. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Eternal Flame Falls hike difficulty
Moderate. The trail involves uneven terrain, stream crossings (wading through Shale Creek), and can be slippery. Proper footwear recommended. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Eternal Flame Falls?
Spring (April–May) for best water flow after snowmelt, and to see the natural gas flame most reliably. Summer and fall visits are possible but water levels may be lower. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Eternal Flame Falls
From the parking area, follow the trail into the gorge along Shale Creek. You will need to wade through the creek multiple times (waterproof footwear recommended). The falls are located in a small grotto; the eternal flame (a small natural gas seep) is visible behind the waterfall when lit. Visitors sometimes relight the flame if extinguished.
Eternal Flame Falls official website
Attractions near Eternal Flame Falls
- •Chestnut Ridge Park – large county park with picnic areas, sledding, and hiking trails
- •Buffalo – city 20 km north with cultural attractions, architecture, and Niagara Falls access
- •Stiglmeier Park – nearby green space with walking trails and sports facilities
- •Zoar Valley – scenic gorge area about 40 km south with additional hiking opportunities
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
No questions yet — be the first to ask.
More to explore nearby
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, New York
Finally got to see the waterfall that was in our school textbooks.
Buttermilk Falls
Ithaca, New York
Series of cascades in Ithaca's gorges.
Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen, New York
19 waterfalls within a 2-mile gorge.