Posted in New Jersey Nature, Waterfalls September 20, 2018 by

This Waterfall Staircase Hike May Be The Most Unique In All Of New Jersey

New Jersey is home to some pretty incredible hikes but if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind hike, this trail just might do the trick. It’s short, sweet, and spectacular scenic! You’ve got the option to enjoy TWO gushing waterfalls, or you can choose not to hike at all. Either way, you’ll end up looking down at Buttermilk Falls, following a staircase climb.

Towering 200', Buttermilk Falls is New Jersey's tallest waterfall.
Image/NJHiking.com
You don't need to hike to see it, as there's a small wheelchair-accessible lot adjacent to the falls. You'll also find a viewing platform which allows you to get close to the cascades. Always beautiful but best after a rainfall, these falls can be little more than a trickle after days of dryness.
You really want to go following recent rainfall...
TripAdvisor/VanKok
While this is certainly a lovely scene, the falls are absolutely breathtaking following a bit of rain.
One of the best ways to enjoy Buttermilk Falls is from above.
Image/NJHiking.com
While the hike up is steep, a staircase has been added to make the journey much easier. There's nothing quite like looking down on a rushing waterfall, and you'll get that chance from the viewing platform that sits atop the staircase.
Definitely look down!
TripAdvisor/Doug6458
Look left, right, up and outwards but be sure to look down, too. Surrounded by forest, just feet above a waterfall, you'll feel connected to nature.
Since no hiking is (typically) required to access Buttermilk Falls, add a second stop...Hidden Falls.
Image/NJHiking.com
Hidden Falls, also known as Silver Spray Falls, can be difficult to find. However, we can help. Walk north along Mountain Road for about half a mile. The trailhead will be here, but it's unmarked. From the trailhead, it's another quarter mile to Silver Spray Falls. According to NJHiking, cross the stream or you'll miss it. To Hidden Falls and back to Buttermilk, your total trip will be about 1.5 miles.

For some spectacular drone footage of Buttermilk Falls, check out this video by YouTube user, Invincible Don1:

To get to Buttermilk Falls, head to Mountain Road in Layton. There is no address, but you can use these coordinates in Google Maps: 41°08’13.4″N 74°53’20.7″W. For more details on this hike, visit NJHiking.com. To discover other incredible waterfalls in New Jersey, click here.

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