Eternal Flame Falls at Chestnut Ridge Park

Eternal Flame Falls is a 30-foot waterfall cascading over sloping shale in two segments. A small grotto houses a natural gas spring that can be lit to produce a flame

Located in in Chestnut Ridge Park in Orchard Park, Eternal Flame Falls is a 30-foot waterfall cascading over sloping shale in two segments. A small grotto houses a natural gas spring that emits natural gas that can be lit to produce a small flame of 4-8 inches in height. This flame is visible nearly year-round, although it can be extinguished and must occasionally be re-lit.
 

The falls are highly dependent on rainfall and melt water and it is usually only flowing in early spring, or after long bouts of heavy rain. The hike to the flame is a mile and a half hike round trip and includes easy to follow flame trail markers that lead you to the falls itself.
 
  
The park itself contains miles of hiking trails, cycling paths, several playing fields, tennis courts, and plenty of picnic facilities and shelters. In winter, the hilly terrain draws crowds in for skiing, sledding and snowshoeing.
 

Pets: Allowed if on leash. Due to the danger involved with this trail, we highly recommend not bringing your pets.

 

Pet Friendly

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