About Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk Falls is a named waterfall in Columbia County, New York, located about 3.3 miles southwest of Philmont. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Claverack 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 42°13′05″ N, 73°42′14″ W (42.21814, -73.70401). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Hollowville Creek (stream, 0.3 mi), Lilli Pond (lake, 0.6 mi), and Sugarloaf Hill (summit, 1.5 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is High Falls, 3.4 miles to the northeast.
Weather at Buttermilk Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Buttermilk Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in New York time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Buttermilk Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Buttermilk Falls holds a 2.7 average from 6 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Buttermilk Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Hollowville Creek — stream, 0.3 mi
- Lilli Pond — lake, 0.6 mi
- Sugarloaf Hill — summit, 1.5 mi
- Hess Pond — lake, 1.7 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 42.21814, -73.70401. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Buttermilk Falls
- Bear Rock Falls, MA17 mi southeast
- Kaaterskill Falls, NY18 mi west
- Buttermilk Falls, NY19 mi west
- Schalks Falls, NY19 mi west
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Buttermilk Falls located?
Buttermilk Falls is in Columbia County, New York, about 3.3 miles southwest of Philmont. Its coordinates are 42.21814, -73.70401 (42°13′05″ N, 73°42′14″ W).
What town is closest to Buttermilk Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Philmont, NY, about 3.3 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Buttermilk Falls?
The closest is High Falls (3.4 mi northeast). Others within reach include Rossman Falls (8.2 mi), Bash Bish Falls (13 mi), and Meadow Falls (16 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Buttermilk Falls?
Buttermilk Falls appears on the USGS Claverack 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.