Buttermilk Falls Natural Area wilderness guide
Natural Area · PA

Buttermilk Falls Natural Area

Buttermilk Falls Natural Area is a scenic destination in western Pennsylvania known for its impressive waterfall and lush surroundings.

Natural Area481+ Trails

Designation

Natural Area

Total Wilderness Area

48

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Buttermilk Falls Natural Area

Buttermilk Falls Natural Area is a scenic destination in western Pennsylvania known for its impressive waterfall and lush surroundings.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Buttermilk Falls Natural Area, located in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, offers a glimpse into the state's natural beauty with its stunning 45-foot waterfall and verdant landscapes. This area, encompassing woodlands and a cascading waterfall, provides visitors with a chance to explore the local ecosystem, rich with diverse plant and animal life. Historically, the area was once owned by Fred McFeely, grandfather of Fred Rogers, the beloved children's television host. Today, it stands as a cherished location for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in hiking and photography. The smooth paths lead visitors through tranquil woodlands up to the waterfall, which is the centerpoint of the area. Beyond its natural allure, Buttermilk Falls Natural Area serves as a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers alike, making it a perfect spot for those seeking respite from urban settings.

Field Guide · Natural Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Buttermilk Falls Natural Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Buttermilk Falls Waterfall✦ Rich forest ecosystem with local wildlife✦ Historical significance linked to Fred Rogers✦ Peaceful, family-friendly hiking trails
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Buttermilk Falls Natural Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Buttermilk Falls Natural Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Buttermilk Falls Natural Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Buttermilk Falls Natural Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Buttermilk Falls Natural Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits or fees required for access.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Buttermilk Falls Natural Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Buttermilk Falls Natural Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Homer City, Pennsylvania
⌖ 2.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Homer City, Pennsylvania

Homer City is a peaceful Pennsylvania town offering access to scenic hiking, paddling, fishing, and biking adventures. Its proximity to Prince Gallitzin State Park makes it an ideal base for outdoor lovers seeking quieter trails and waters.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Blairsville, Pennsylvania
⌖ 7.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Blairsville, Pennsylvania

Blairsville is a peaceful outdoor hub in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, perfect for hiking, paddling, fishing, and snowmobiling amid lush forests and rivers.

Spring through Fall, with winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Indiana, Pennsylvania
⌖ 8.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Indiana, Pennsylvania

Indiana, Pennsylvania offers quiet outdoor escapes like hiking in Gallitzin State Forest and paddling on peaceful lakes. With year-round recreational opportunities and a friendly small-town vibe, it’s a great base for exploring western PA’s natural sites.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Shelocta, Pennsylvania
⌖ 12.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shelocta, Pennsylvania

Shelocta, PA offers a tranquil outdoor retreat with hiking, paddling, and bird watching amid rural forests and waterways. Ideal for travelers seeking peaceful nature getaways away from busy tourist routes.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Derry, Pennsylvania
⌖ 13.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Derry, Pennsylvania

Derry, Pennsylvania offers quiet outdoor adventures with hiking, paddling, fishing, and cross-country skiing close by. It’s a peaceful basecamp for exploring state parks and creeks in the Appalachian foothills.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Saltsburg, Pennsylvania
⌖ 15.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saltsburg, Pennsylvania

Saltsburg, Pennsylvania, blends outdoor adventure with rich canal history. From paddling the Allegheny River and scenic hiking to mountain biking and fishing, this riverside town invites you to a refreshing escape filled with tranquil waterways and rugged trails.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Buttermilk Falls Natural Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

TUBAPALOOZA: Float Johnstown’s Wettest Music Festival
ADVEXPEDITION
Johnstown, Pennsylvania
River TubeADV Bookable

TUBAPALOOZA: Float Johnstown’s Wettest Music Festival

A six-hour river float on August 31, 2025 with live regional bands, included food, shuttle service and a portion of proceeds benefiting Operation: BeYoutiful — this guide lays out the schedule, what to bring, and ticket details.

River TubePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Paddle the Shoreline: Guided Birding on North Park Lake
ADVEXPEDITION
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
KayakADV Bookable

Paddle the Shoreline: Guided Birding on North Park Lake

A guided, family-friendly kayak outing with Venture Outdoors that pairs basic on-land instruction and equipment with slow paddling around North Park Lake to search for Great Blue Herons, kingfishers, and — if luck allows — a Bald Eagle.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Driver’s Choice Mystery Day: A Surprise Loop from New Stanton
ADVEXPEDITION
New Stanton, Pennsylvania
Bus TourADV Bookable

Driver’s Choice Mystery Day: A Surprise Loop from New Stanton

A surprise-filled, family-friendly day trip departing New Stanton on June 3, 2026, with deluxe coach transport, on-board snacks and mystery admittance included — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

Bus TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip