🔥 Eternal Flame Falls: The Hidden Wonder Just Outside Niagara
Niagara Falls may steal the spotlight, but just 30 miles south lies a magical place where water and fire coexist — literally.
Tucked inside Chestnut Ridge Park in Western New York, Eternal Flame Falls is one of the few places on Earth where a natural gas flame burns right behind a waterfall. Yes, a real flame. Behind a real waterfall. And it’s been glowing for years.
💧🔥 What Is Eternal Flame Falls?
Eternal Flame Falls is a small cascade located in a wooded ravine in Orchard Park, New York. What makes it extraordinary is the flickering orange flame that lives in a small grotto behind the falling water. The flame is fed by a natural gas seep that seeps out of the rock — and it’s been burning off and on for decades, often relit by curious hikers when the wind blows it out.
Nature rarely gives us opposing elements in harmony, but at Eternal Flame Falls, fire and water dance together.
📍 Where Is It?
Eternal Flame Falls is located in Chestnut Ridge Park, about a 40-minute drive south of Niagara Falls. It’s an easy day trip if you’re staying in Niagara or Buffalo — and well worth the detour.
Address: Chestnut Ridge Park, 6121 Chestnut Ridge Road, Orchard Park, NY
Trailhead: Eternal Flame Trail (about 1.5 miles round trip)
🥾 The Hike
The hike to the falls is short but adventurous. It’s about ¾ mile one way through forest trails, streambeds, and some slippery terrain, especially after rain. You’ll want sturdy shoes and a sense of curiosity.
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 45–60 minutes round-trip
Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall (though winter hikes are magical, too — just wear spikes!)
Once you arrive at the falls, you’ll hear the water and spot the flame tucked behind the veil of the cascade. It’s smaller than you’d think — but that just makes it more magical.
🔥 Is the Flame Really Eternal?
Yes… and no.
The gas seep is natural and persistent, but the flame can be blown out by wind or heavy rain. Local hikers — and fans of quirky natural wonders — often bring a lighter to “help nature along” and relight it.
It’s not always burning — but the magic is always there.
📸 Tips for Visiting
Bring a lighter, just in case you want to relight the flame.
Don’t wear flip-flops. It’s a muddy, rooty trail.
Go early in the day to avoid crowds.
Respect the area — it’s a natural wonder, not a tourist trap.
Pack out what you bring in!
🌊 Why It Pairs Perfectly with a Niagara Falls Trip
If you’re already planning to visit Niagara Falls, Eternal Flame Falls is a perfect “hidden gem” side adventure. While Niagara roars with power and scale, Eternal Flame whispers with mystery and magic.
It’s the kind of spot that makes you believe in fairytales — and gives your Instagram feed something extra.
Final Thought: Fire + Water = Wonder
Eternal Flame Falls reminds us that even in a world of big attractions, the most magical things are sometimes hidden just out of view. If you’re headed to Niagara Falls and want to add a little fire to your waterfall tour — this is your sign.
Niagara may show you the force of nature.
Eternal Flame shows you its heart.
🌐 Explore more hidden gems with us at GoNiagaraTours.com
📍 #EternalFlameFalls #NiagaraFallsDayTrips #WaterfallWonders