NIAGARA FALLS - Niagara Falls State Park, New York

DESCRIPTION:  Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie overflow into Lake Ontario. About 150,000 gallons of water/second floods over the America side of Niagara Falls. The height is 176 feet.  Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in America.

Besides the spectacular scenic views of the falls and the experience of the mist at many points in the park or hearing the Fall's roar which makes it nearly impossible to carry on a conversation in a normal voice volume, the park offers dining, Cave of the Winds tour, Legends of
Adventure movie (meet daredevils traversing the Falls), sea life at the Aquarium of Niagara, and boat rides to the bottom of the Falls on "Maid of the Mist", as well as a touring shuttle.

In the late 1860's, a small group of environmentalists founded the Free Niagara movement. The movement wanted the natural beauty of the land surrounding the falls to be protected and remain free to the public. The entire network of paths through the wooded areas and along the banks of Niagara River stays maintained and preserved. Even though the park entrance is free, a $10 parking fee is due upon exiting.

 

 TYPE:   Plunge: Water descends vertically, losing contact with the bedrock surface.  Block: Water descends from a relatively wide stream or river.

 

ACCESSIBILITY:  Wheelchairs and strollers are available at the welcome center.  Level pathways and elevators are available for easy access to anywhere in the park. The trolley and "Maid of the Mist" are accessible for wheelchairs. The 230-foot Observation Deck has elevators to the top overlook and to the base of the falls. Accessible pathways lead to the base of the falls to experience the massive amounts of mist.

DIRECTIONS:  After crossing Grand Island Bridge ($1 toll), take exit 21 to Robert Moses Parkway. Continue on the Parkway as it turns into Prospect Street. Follow the signs that direct you to Niagara Falls State Park parking lots.

Phone:  (716) 278-1796
Address:  Niagara Falls State Park
                332 Prospect Street
                Niagara Falls, NY  14303