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Eternal Flame Falls
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,737 Google reviews · Running trail in Orchard Park, New York · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Eternal Flame Falls' own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Secluded waterfalls with a hiking trail & a natural gas spring that when ignited flames 4-8 inches.
What runners say about Eternal Flame Falls
“The hike was beautiful and fairly easy/short, and it was an exciting adventure navigating our way to this epic view!”
“The trail was easy to follow because there are small fire 🔥 symbol markers along the way that guide you directly to the flame.”
“I would call this an easy hike but bring proper foot wear when it’s raining it can be slick.”
We hiked this on New Years day. It was a bit more than expected, crossing ice and slid down embankment, some hiker's had broken through the ice. We were prepared and had extra boots and clothes but met people unprepared for this winter hike. So please,if you go in the winter, don't wear tennis shoes.
Beautiful hike. Not only are the waterfalls breathtaking but the woods you walk through are as well. There are benches to sit and admire the view up top. There are a lot of stairs going down to where the falls are but they have some railings and are well maintained.
Very cool beginner to intermediate hike. Some areas have a tough pass, but it is mostly an easy walk. The trail is easily identifiable and well marked. Trail can get crowded, but it wasn't too bad. The false are very pretty and the flame is very cool.
A unique experience at the Eternal Flame! The surroundings are spectacular, a natural paradise. Even though the waterfall was dry when I visited in the summer, the eternal flame in the grotto was an incredible sight.
Trail conditions & character
“Even though the waterfall was dry when I visited in the summer, the eternal flame in the grotto was an incredible sight.”
“The trail can be somewhat challenging at a few of spots for certain people due to downed trees, slippery and muddy surface.”
“There is ample of parking spots at the main entrance of the trail.”
“Saw someone with a stroller and some folks with small kids having a hard time in certain parts… perhaps something to keep in mind for planning ahead.”
“The trail was easy to follow because there are small fire 🔥 symbol markers along the way that guide you directly to the flame.”
“While I was disappointed that the falls wasn't much more than a trickle due to lack of rainfall, the flame was lit and was a pretty sight to see.”
Plan your run at Eternal Flame Falls
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitenyfalls.com
- Phone+1 716-858-8355
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–9 pm |
Running trails near Orchard Park
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Chestnut Ridge Park Eternal Flame Trail
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Stretching 6 miles, this park features a trail network and an eternal flame fueled by natural gas.
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