Niagara Falls is situated between the twin cities of Niagara Falls,
Ontario and Niagara Falls, New York, and is separated into two
sections: The American Falls and the Horseshoe Falls. The highest drop
is from Horseshoe Falls which is about 170 feet, whereas American Falls
is only a 70-foot drop. However, the sight of Niagara Falls is still
spectacular.
As the largest waterfall in the United States, Niagara Falls has
been a popular attraction ever since tourism became a business. The
site offers tours, boat rides, and nature hikes—each of which offers a
different way of experiencing Niagara Falls. From the Point Prospect
Observation Tower, which provides a wide survey of the entire
structure, to pathways along Prospect Point Park and several different
islands, one can really get a feel of just how wide the Falls are.
However, nothing beats the face-to-face experience of being beneath the
crashing waters on the Maid of the Mist, one of many boat cruises that
takes tourists right into “the belly of the beast”. Another option for
hands-on discovery is to take the nature hike from Goat Island, from
where access to one of Niagara Falls’ caves is possible. Whichever
experience you choose, you're likely to come away with the realization
of the miniscule role we humans play in the grand scheme of things on
this earth. It almost tends to be an out-of-body experience as one
realizes up-close, the sheer beauty and magnitude of Niagara Falls as
well as the presence of danger lying dormant within her confines.
A visit to the Falls is rather convenient because of its multiple
access points, but it’s important to note that during the peak tourism
months of July and August, a nature buff might not get the full
spiritual experience of Niagara’s greatness simply because the presence
of large crowds of tourists (including squealing children and flashing
cameras). Also in the summer, nearly unbearable heat near the
waterfalls makes it challenging for all by the most experienced hiker.
During these months it’s best to opt for the boat tour...but, be
forewarned... you will get wet!
The best time to visit Niagara Falls in order to get the full
experience would be April-May. Check the weather to make sure it won’t
be raining. There's already so much water in the vicinity, you don't
need any more. It can tend to get a bit swampy and the hike up to
Niagara will prove to be more difficult than you bargained for.
However, if you catch a hike or tour on a dry day, the smell of the air
will lead you to believe you’ve found an oasis in the midst of a crazy
world. So, nature-lovers...avoid the summer crowds and heat to
experience the best of Niagara Falls.
But, if you’re just looking for something to do while vacationing
around that area of the Canadian border with your family, the summer
months are not that bad. The tour guides tend to be a bit more aware of
the presence of younger children and they'll structure the tours in a
way that even the youngest kids can have fun as well. It can be a
memorable family experience if that’s what you’re looking for. There's
nothing quite like nature’s ferocity if ending at Niagara Falls on a
journey of self-exploration and discovery.
