Discovering the Eternal Flame has been one of the most magical things I’ve ever seen, created by nature! It’s a true hidden gem!
The Eternal Flame is found behind a beautiful waterfall, in a little grotto. The little grotto emits a natural gas, which causes the flame to light. A flame that’s been burning for thousands of years! It’s one of the most unique, mysterious eternal flames’ in the world! Honestly, it is incredible to see with your own eyes!
To find the flame, it’s pretty easy! It’s a short 1.5-mile out-and-back hike. It isn’t strenuous and the full route is well-marked with markers. It’s a great family-friendly walk!
However, when we visited at the end of March, the stream was quite full and had burst its banks. This meant that, to get the flame, we had to wade through parts of the stream. Let’s just say, my feet got slightly wet! Thankfully the stream wasn’t deep, making it very easy to wade through. So if you are planning on doing this route just after the snow has melted, like we did, I would recommend a good pair of waterproof shoes or even wellies!
Location
The Eternal Flame is located in Chestnut Ridge Park, northwest of New York State. Just 20 miles (32 km) south of the City of Buffalo, and 40 miles (64 km) south of the USA side of Niagara Falls.
Parking
Parking is easy! There is a large free car park, located at the start of the trailhead called: Eternal Flame Hiking Trailhead Parking.
SatNav: Chestnut Ridge Rd, Orchard Park, NY 14127
The Route
Follow this map, as you walk the route, and you shouldn’t get lost! Make sure your location is turned on and you should be able to see exactly where you are, on this map. Or if you prefer, download the GPX file and use it on your choice of route tracker.
1.
Starting at the Eternal Flame Hiking Trailhead Parking, take the path leading you west out of the bottom end of the car park, near the trailhead sign. Follow the path as it leads you through the woods, following the markers with a flame on, marking the trail.
2.
Eventually, you will come to some steps. Follow the steps down to the stream.
3.
Cross over the stream, and follow the small path, running parallel to the stream.
This is where we spent most of the route wading through water!
4.
As you head along the edge of the stream, you should pass a little waterfall on your right-hand side. (Photo above.) Continue forward, following the stream until you see an even bigger waterfall. Beside the waterfall, you should notice a flame. This is the Eternal Flame.
5.
Once you have finished admiring the mysterious eternal flame, make your way back down the stream, retracing your steps. Follow the same route you came up, back to the car park. The car park where you started the walk from.
Remember to keep an eye on the map, and follow the trail markers. This will help to make sure you stay on the correct path at all times!
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Further Reading
Other hiking guides you may like:
Palo Duro Canyon – Palo Duro Canyon: Hiking The Lighthouse Trail
Sedona – A Bucket List Hiking Destination: Sedona
Grand Canyon – Hiking Grand Canyon’s Bright Angel Trail
My book, How I Tamed the Wolf, Living with Lupus is available on Amazon via this link:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09M73X2JQ/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_MWAF58981F0VVMNRV1WN
