My Afternoon Hike To Eternal Flame Falls, Orchard Park NY

Today I went to visit a good friend of mine in the nursing home. On the way back to the office I was inspired to see if I could find Eternal Flame Falls. I have lived in this area for over forty years and never once bothered to find the falls. The other day I was reading a web page that gave directions to it so it was fresh on my mind. Seeing it was on the way home I decided to give it a try.

Well, I cannot believe I have never bothered to hike to this falls before. I have passed its location HUNDREDS of times in my life unaware. It is located on Shale Creek – a tributary to Eighteen Mile Creek, in a beautiful section of Chestnut Ridge Park. I was VERY much impressed with what I found. It was only a half mile or so walk through a forest of hemlocks, pines and maples. The path is clearly marked and it is easy to find.

I guestimate the falls is over 40 feet high. The water level was very low considering the time of the year. What is special about this falls is the natural gas feed flame that burns in a section cut out in the Hanover shale behind the water fall. The weird looking trees with the roots exposed give the unique spot an erie feeling. I wish I had my tripod with me as it is a lowlight area. I will have to get back when the water is flowing in a greater volume and get some better pictures for my Gallery.

Click on any image for a larger view
Eternal Flame FallsEternal Flame Falls

Eternal Flame FallsEternal Flame Falls

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