If you’ve ever typed “waterfalls near me in New York” into your search engine, you know that the Empire State is positively brimming with gorgeous falls. New Yorkers, known for being the personal waterfalls Rolodex of their friend group, may have managed to even keep this literal hot spot under wraps. Tucked away behind a Western New York waterfall lies our very own Rapunzel of sorts, an ethereal beauty hiding away right in front of our eyes…an eternal flame!

hthrd/Flickr
So, where can you find this beauty? Located just outside of Buffalo, you can find this magical waterfall in the Chestnut Ridge Park! This most unique waterfall can also be found featured in Bruce Kershner's book "Secret Places" a favorite exploring guide to all New Yorkers and those who are visiting.
chrisforsyth/Flickr
At the base of Eternal Flame Falls, a natural gas is emitted, creating the opportunity for anyone visiting to strike up a small but mighty flame. While the flame itself remains visible all year long, it oftentimes needs to be re-lit. While there appears to be no known evidence of when this fire housing waterfall was first discovered, many believe it was the Native Americans who first uncovered this magic!
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For years, scientists were under the impression that like many other eternal flames across the world, this one was being kept lit by very, very hot shale rocks. Well, it turns out they were wrong!

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Kim Carpenter/Flickr
How could scientists ever possibly assume that this New York gem would be just ordinary like all the others? Never! After recent research it was discovered that not only was the shale rock beneath these falls much younger than they had estimated, but that the shale itself was actually quite cold compared to all the other eternal flames. Because of this, many are left to ponder what exactly is happening at this mysterious waterfall.
Kim Carpenter/Flickr
Need another reason to recognize that this enchanted spot is no average waterfall? This macro seep contains the highest concentration of propane and ethane gas out of any other seep in the entire world! Wowza!
Kim Carpenter/Flickr
Over the years, Eternal Flames Falls has steadily increased its popularity, having both positive and negative impacts. Because so many people have grown to love Eternal Flame Falls it came as no surprise when a public protest, fighting against a movement to clear out the nearby forested area, was deemed successful. We love our greenery and do our best to keep nature in its natural form. The negative impacts of this extraordinary place's popularity? Litter, pollution and vandalism.
Kim Carpenter/Flickr
Are you now completely and totally itching to get in your car and drive straight to this fascinating waterfall? If you are...here are some things you should keep in mind! Like most waterfalls, Eternal Flame is best viewed after we've experienced a good rainstorm. Open daily and year-round, you'll find roadside parking easily available to you.

Prepared to see the impossible? Check out the footage of this incredibly enchanting flame behind the falls below:

There you have it! A great answer to the ever-pressing question, “what are some waterfalls near me in New York?” Not quite what you were expecting, right? Have you ever taken a trip to Eternal Flame Falls and started the fire yourself? Tell us about your magical experience in the comments below!

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waterfalls near me in New York

Beth C. | August 12, 2021

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What are some secret spots to visit in New York?

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Eternal Flame Falls, Eternal Flame Hiking Trail, Orchard Park, NY 14127, USA