Experience the falls up close, and get soaked, at Cave of the Winds. The adventure begins with an elevator ride into the Niagara Gorge, a drop of 175 feet. The next stop is the Hurricane Deck, which is fewer than 20 feet away from the pounding waters of the Bridal Veil Falls. Ponchos and sandals are provided. Cave of the Winds is open from May through October.
See the raging waters from above at the Observation Tower, which extends over the American side of the Falls. According to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, this "230-foot overlook provides the only U.S. location to view both the American and Horseshoe Falls." The Observation Tower is open year-round, weather permitting. During warm months, take the elevator down to the Maid of the Mist to get an even more up close and personal falls experience.
Take a half-hour boat tour through the falls on the Maid of the Mist, a two-level boat that takes tourists up close to the falls between the U.S. and Canadian sides. Like with Cave of the Winds, prepare to get wet, and don't try to take pictures without a waterproof camera. As Road & Travel magazine says, the "Maid gets so close that the mist created sprays you silly, which is why all guests are required to wear a rain poncho during the tour." Ponchos are provided. Maid of the Mist operates in warm weather months, usually from late spring through early autumn.
Take a hiking tour through the Gorge Trail System, where a choice of four tours cater to beginning through advanced hikers. For beginners of all ages, the one-hour Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Hike is the easiest offered. The Whirlpool Rapids Adventure Hike is a difficult three-hour hike that includes boulder hopping and does not allow children under age 8. Sturdy footwear is recommended for all hikes. Be prepared to climb over rocks and walk up and down steep stairs. Niagara Falls hiking tours run from May through October.
