Just a short 20-minute drive southwest of Ithaca, Buttermilk Falls State Park awaits nature lovers on the southern end of Cayuga Lake. This beautiful park is named for Buttermilk Creek, which tumbles down ten spectacular waterfalls as it carves through the landscape, dropping 500 feet along its journey. From sheer plunges to gentle cascades, this park showcases an impressive variety of waterfalls, making it a must-visit destination all year long.
During winter, the park takes on a new kind of magic. While the trails close from November through May, the park remains open year-round, offering opportunities to marvel at the frozen cascades and peaceful snow-covered landscapes. The icy formations on the falls and the stillness of the gorge make winter visits equally breathtaking, providing a stark contrast to the lively energy of summer.
Buttermilk Falls State Park: One of the Best Things to Do this Winter
Buttermilk Falls State Park encompasses over 800 acres with upper and lower sections, each offering unique attractions. The park’s centerpiece, the majestic Buttermilk Falls, cascades gracefully down a natural rock staircase, creating a serene pool at its base. In the warmer months, this pool transforms into a beloved swimming area reminiscent of an old-fashioned swimming hole, complete with a grassy picnic area, benches, and a small beach for sunbathing or relaxing.
Whether you prefer dipping your toes in the cool waters, lounging on the grass, or simply savoring the tranquil ambiance, the falls offer something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy a small lake, hiking trails that meander through woodlands and along the gorge and rim, picnic areas, and playing fields in the upper park. The lower park features a campground, a natural swimming pool, and additional playing fields. Plenty of nature trails provide opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Visiting this park is just one of the best things to do in the Finger Lakes this winter.
More Things to Do in the Finger Lakes this Winter:
There are other beautiful areas for hiking, snowshoeing, and winter nature viewing. Here are a few other places that we suggest adding to your itinerary:
- Taughannock Falls State Park: Check out the frozen gorge at Taughannock Falls State Park, which is open year-round. There is significantly less foot traffic on the trails in the winter, but it’s still a lovely place worth putting on your list. The ice and waterfall combined are truly breathtaking!
- Rice Hill Sledding Hill: If you want a little old-fashioned winter fun, head to Rice Hill. The area is known for its sledding hill, two ice skating ponds, and a warming hut with a wood stove. Several multi-use trails are also popular for snowshoeing, hiking, and cross-country skiing.
- Skiing at Greek Peak Ski Resort: Take advantage of our lake effect snow and get in some of the best downhill skiing this winter for at least one day during your getaway. The area has two excellent ski resorts, but Greek Peak Mountain Resort is the closest, at a mere 45 minutes away.
- Winter Wine Tasting: The Finger Lakes Wine Region is considered one of the best in the nation. Winter is a surprisingly great time to visit these award-winning wineries, as we enjoy a much slower, more relaxed pace to the season.
Book Our Elegant Bed and Breakfast in the Finger Lakes
With our charming location in the picturesque village of Trumansburg, the Inn at Gothic Eves provides easy access to Cayuga and Seneca Lakes and the area’s wineries, state parks, and cultural attractions. Each guest room is thoughtfully designed with sophisticated decor, plush bedding, and modern amenities, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as it is memorable. From the moment you arrive, the inn’s welcoming ambiance and attention to detail create an unforgettable Upstate New York getaway!
One of the highlights of staying at our Finger Lakes bed and breakfast is the exceptional hospitality provided by its innkeeper and staff. Guests are treated to a gourmet breakfast each morning with locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the region’s flavors. Enjoy your meal in the elegant dining room, where each bite is a testament to the care and quality that define the inn. The state-of-the-art spa services further enhance the experience, offering indulgent treatments like massages, facials, and access to a cedar hot tub and sauna for ultimate relaxation.
The inn’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the best of the Finger Lakes. Guests can embark on scenic drives to nearby state parks, including Taughannock Falls and Buttermilk Falls State Park, or visit award-winning wineries and breweries along the Cayuga and Seneca Lake Wine Trails. In the evening, the inn provides a cozy haven to unwind with a glass of wine by the fire. Whether planning a romantic getaway, a wine-tasting adventure, or a peaceful escape, The Inn at Gothic Eves offers the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Book your lodging today!
