A magical hidden gem is located north of us only two hours away and aside from locals, many do not know it exists. Chestnut Ridge County Park is the largest county park in the US and is located at 6121 Chestnut Ridge Road Orchard Park, NY just off Interstate 90. (I 90 becomes a toll road after entering NY State so prepare to have about $6 in cash to complete your journey.) This often overlooked park sits on a hilltop with stunning views of downtown Buffalo, and the main building called the Casino also has a snack bar and restrooms. In the winter there are toboggan runs which operate on the weekends and these tall structures are located beside the Casino. When there is not snow on the ground however, is when one of the most unique aspects of the park is easier to access.
The Eternal Flame Falls is located in the southern most tip of Chestnut Ridge Park and the parking lot is easy to find from the main visitor office located in the Casino. Just a short drive down the road following the signs and you will find a large parking lot on the side of the road. The trail itself is marked moderate to difficult, primarily from the steepness as well as the abundant tree roots which can be tripping hazards if one is not paying attention. The trail itself is not a long hike, so slowing down and taking your time on both the descent and the climb is recommended. A trekking pole or walking stick can add a bit of stability when conditions are wet and the ground becomes slippery, and good traction shoes are a must. As you reach the bottom of the hill, you will follow the “flame” icons on the trail markers to the left and now you will be following the creek bed back the way you came. It may seem shorter to just go down the embankment, but the signs state to stick to the approved trail for a reason and the cliff is too steep and dangerous to maneuver. The bottom of the gorge will have you walking up Shale Creek to reach the falls. When there has been several days of rain, or in early spring, be prepared for wet crossings. However, late spring and summer months allow you to walk from rock to rock without getting very wet at all.
As you scamper up the creek there are several places that trees are across the valley which will require you to climb over them, the kids will absolutely love this part, and it is worth the effort to continue the hike. Shortly after the largest log jam the falls will come into view. The 30 foot high drop is in two sections, the first is a skinnier 8 foot high waterfall that then branches out into falls which ripple over the natural shale formations. Near the middle of this bottom section to the right side is a small grotto (a hollow area like a small cave) which the water flows over. It is within this grotto that the magic happens.
A natural gas fissure is located here and the grotto protects it from both the water and the wind allowing it to stay lit, thus illuminating the water which passes over the front. The flame can be extinguished and it is wise to carry a lighter with you just in case it has for some reason been put out. The Eternal flame was burning in all its glory when I arrived for my visit and is best viewed from the right bank when standing in front of the falls.
The scientists have been trying to determine how this gas fissure works, since it seems to defy the laws of nature. There is much more information available with an easy Google search “How does the Eternal flame falls keep burning”. So rather than go into a scientific discussion I will direct anyone interested there. Instead, I will say this- it is honestly one of the most unique and coolest sights I have ever seen and is absolutely worth all the effort required to get there.
I sat in awe as the representation of all four elements was displayed in front of me, earth in the form of shale, the water cascading by, the fire flickering wildly in the small gusts of wind. I knew from my research it would be cool, I just had no idea it would be that cool. After a snack, and a drink and about 50 photos and video clips it was time to make the trek out of the gorge. One thing I have learned through hiking it is a rule that when one goes downhill, one must go uphill, and what an uphill it is! Being the first hike of the season I just took my time and reminded myself that it was really only a short distance back to the car.
Once there, the two hour trip home was filled with a fantastic sunset view over Lake Erie as you travel back towards the state line. Along the way is the Angola NY rest stop which is also unique in that you park and cross over a pedestrian bridge to get to the center concourse filled with a food court, a gift shop and restrooms. I remember stopping there as a child on our way to Canada and it was always a landmark for me, holding a fascination to be able to stand on the bridge as the semi trucks passed under my feet. So if you have kiddos with you be sure to make the stop.
As you travel back into Pa the exit signs will begin to be familiar roadways, so rather than sticking to the interstate, why not grab one of the highways and meander through the parts of Pa you may not visit frequently. Remembering the words as you travel rural Pa that not all those who wander are lost, just head south and enjoy the trip. As Seen in Meadville Tribune
