We're pretty fortunate to have dozens of waterfalls to visit in Pennsylvania, and a few of them even boast the same name. Buttermilk Falls in Pennsylvania, for example, can be found in Beaver Falls and in New Florence. You'll find both at the end of a short but scenic path. However, today we're making our way to the Buttermilk Falls in New Florence, Indiana County, arguably one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Pennsylvania.
Buttermilk Falls in New Florence has a connection to one of Pennsylvania's favorite sons. The land on which the waterfall sits was once owned by Fred Rogers' grandfather.
Getting to Buttermilk Falls Natural Area can be a bit confusing. You'll come off of the main road and head onto a country road. The road leading to the parking lot is narrow - I worried that another car would come the opposite way, that's how tight the road is - and feels more like a driveway. Keep going, though, and you'll end up at the parking lot.
Mister Rogers spent much of his childhood exploring his grandfather's luxurious estate. Today, you can still see some of the remnants of the estate, including retaining walls and foundations.
Before you get to the start of the trail, you'll come to several picnic tables. Bring a picnic along. There are also restrooms and trash cans near the parking lot.
Follow the Mister Rogers Path, a winding path that's flanked by trees. The trees provide ample shade, during the warmer months, along most of the path.
If you've been searching for "waterfalls near me," you're in for a few surprises at Buttermilk Falls Natural Area in New Florence.
As the trail winds its way toward Buttermilk Falls, you'll likely notice small flipboards along the way. Open each to read a quote from Mister Rogers.
Opening that first placard was a surprise, and reading Mister Rogers' quotes was one of the highlights of the trail for me.
Listen for the sound of Buttermilk Falls - the cascade is loud - and it will lead you to a viewing platform along the trail for your first glimpse of the falls.
The above photo is from the viewing platform along the Buttermilk Falls hike.
One of the highlights of the short .06-mile trail, which is rated easy, is crossing over the Eclipse Bridge.
The magnificent bridge leads to a staircase that will take you straight to Buttermilk Falls.
While the trail is rated easy, be prepared to climb a lot of stairs, which could be a bit tiring on the way back from the base of the waterfall. The views, however, are more than worth it.
Take care when you're walking down the stairs; they get slippery as you get closer to the base of the waterfall.
A small overlook on the stairs offers sensational views of the falls.
For a truly unique experience, why not walk behind Buttermilk Falls?
When my daughter and I visited, the waterfall had quite a few visitors. Everyone was friendly and polite, though, taking turns behind the waterfall and making sure everyone had a good view.
Just be prepared to get wet. The view from behind the waterfall, though, is well worth it, and it's quite refreshing, especially on a hot summer day.
But...there's more. After you've visited Buttermilk Falls and crossed over the Eclipse Bridge again, keep an eye out for two small but beautiful waterfalls.
While you can finish this Buttermilk Falls hike in half an hour, take your time if you can. The smaller waterfalls had rocks and tree limbs we could sit on to enjoy the scenery. We also ran into travelers from across the country and enjoyed a few chats. You can easily spend a few hours, or more, here.
Learn more on the official website of Buttermilk Falls Natural Area.
Get a glimpse of a wintry Buttermilk Falls in this YouTube video by Andrew C.
Have you been to this particular Buttermilk Falls in New Florence, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! If you're up for more exploring, make your way to Shohola Falls in the Poconos. (You'll follow a short .06-mile trail to reach it.)
Hiking is one of the best ways to really get to know Pennsylvania. For more of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania, check out AllTrails.
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