Eternal Flame Trail

The trail is located within Chestnut Ridge Park in Orchard Park, New York. Parking is available at the designated trailhead parking lot within the park, which provides direct access to the start of the hike.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, due to the challenging and often slippery terrain, especially in the creek bed, it's important to ensure your dog is agile and comfortable with such conditions. Always keep your dog on a leash and be prepared to clean up after them.

The trail offers a unique experience year-round. Spring and fall provide lush scenery and comfortable temperatures. Winter can be particularly striking with snow and ice, but it also significantly increases the difficulty and danger due to slick conditions. Summer is popular but can be muddy after rain. Always check current conditions before you go.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Eternal Flame Trail or to enter Chestnut Ridge Park. It is free and open to the public.

The trail starts on a gravel path, transitioning to packed dirt through forests. A significant part involves descending and ascending about 135 steps into a gorge. Once in the gorge, you'll follow the bed of Shale Creek, which is often very slippery due to slick shale rock, mud, and water crossings. You'll need to navigate over logs and step across stones, often walking directly in the water. It's generally rated 'moderate' due to these challenging creek bed conditions and the steps.

Most hikers complete the round trip in about 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on their pace and how much time they spend at the waterfall. While relatively short, the challenging terrain in the gorge can make it feel longer.

Waterproof footwear, such as sturdy hiking boots, is essential due to the wet and muddy creek bed. You should also consider bringing a small backpack with water, snacks, and a lighter to reignite the flame if you find it unlit. Dress in layers, as the forest canopy keeps much of the trail shaded and cool.

The trail is famous for the Eternal Flame Falls, a rare natural phenomenon where a flame burns behind a 30 to 35-foot waterfall, fueled by natural gas seeping from the rock. It's one of only nine known natural eternal flames globally. The flame can sometimes be extinguished by wind or water, and many visitors bring a lighter to reignite it, adding an interactive element to the experience.

Beyond the unique Eternal Flame Falls, you'll hike through lush pine and hemlock forests, encounter several small waterfalls along Shale Creek, and navigate a steep ravine. The forest canopy provides a cool, shaded atmosphere, and the scenery is particularly beautiful in winter with snow-covered evergreens.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Eternal Flame Trail (100% of the route) but also passes through sections of the Ward Hill Trail (83%), Seufert Trail (77%), Orienteering Trail (44%), and Boy Scout Trail (29%). This allows for potential longer or alternative hiking options within Chestnut Ridge Park.

While the trail is relatively short, its 'moderate' difficulty rating means it can be challenging for very young children or those not accustomed to hiking. The 135 steps and the slippery, muddy creek bed require careful footing. Older children who are agile and enjoy a bit of adventure will likely find it exciting, especially the unique flame.

Heavy rains significantly increase the difficulty as water levels rise in the creek bed, making it muddier and more slippery. In winter, deep snow and ice can make the trail extremely dangerous, particularly the steps and the creek bed. Always check current weather and trail conditions before heading out, and consider postponing your hike if conditions are poor.