A Mesmerizing Never-Ending Flame Behind A Waterfall In Upstate New York

A video of a mesmerizing "never-ending" flame hidden behind a waterfall in upstate New York has captivated users on Instagram. The stunning sight was captured in a viral video shared by Mike Loughran, who is a fisherman, photographer, and gym teacher based in Buffalo, New York. Since it was posted on January 20, the video has garnered over 21.7 million views, showcasing the unique phenomenon at the Eternal Flame Falls.

The latest footage, recorded on January 17, features the flame flickering just behind a small waterfall in a snow-covered forest setting. Loughran believes that this flame was ignited "well over a hundred years ago by either a lightning strike or a human being." The flame is nestled deep within a rock wall, providing it with protection from strong winds and water, although it can occasionally extinguish during severe weather.

This unusual natural flame can be found in a small grotto at the base of the Eternal Flame Falls, situated in Chestnut Ridge Park in Orchard Park, Erie County. Hikers can follow the designated Eternal Flame Trail, which is well-marked, to reach the flame. While reports suggest there are about nine eternal flames worldwide, the exact number remains uncertain.

Understanding the Source of the Eternal Flame

According to a study published in Marine and Petroleum Geology in May 2013, this flame may have been burning naturally for hundreds or even thousands of years. Contrary to its name, the flame does not represent a true eternal flame; rather, it is a natural gas leak. The presence of naturally occurring methane seep in New York was first noted by explorers in the mid-1600s.

The study explains that significant, continuous gas fluxes are typically driven by deep pressurized gas pools connected to the surface by faulting in overlying rocks. The eternal flame at Chestnut Ridge Park results from such natural seepage of shale gas. Not only is it remarkable due to its location behind a waterfall, but it also exhibits a unique molecular composition.

Loughran stated that these natural flames are caused by gas leaking through the Earth's crust. The gas escapes into the air, vanishing unless it is ignited. Lightning strikes can ignite the gas, creating a never-ending flame, provided that gas continues to flow. Additionally, humans can light the flame by locating the source of the leak, which some believe was first lit by Native Americans centuries ago.

The Magic of the Flame Captivates Viewers

Viewers on Instagram were amazed by the captivating flame in Loughran's post. Comments ranged from admiration to wonder, with one user expressing that "the world is magical" and another stating "this is soooo cool." The flame's stunning visuals and the mystery surrounding it have drawn significant attention, highlighting the connection between nature and human curiosity.

In conclusion, the Eternal Flame Falls not only presents a breathtaking natural spectacle but also serves as a reminder of the wonders of nature that can exist in our world. If you ever find yourself in upstate New York, be sure to check out this incredible phenomenon and experience the magic for yourself!