Whirlpool Expedition: A Guided Niagara Gorge Adventure

Whirlpool Expedition: A Guided Niagara Gorge Adventure

By Explore Niagara NY

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Overview

Embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure with a NY licensed guide. Experience one of the most stunning natural attractions in Niagara Falls. Your tour begins at Devil’s Hole State Park, where you’ll descend a 400-step stone staircase into the Niagara River Gorge. From there, the trail follows the roaring Niagara River, taking you past Devil’s Hole and along the scenic gorge walls to the famous Whirlpool Flats and the powerful Whirlpool Rapids — some of the most impressive Class VI rapids in North America.

After exploring the river’s edge, the hike continues back up to the gorge rim overlook with breathtaking views of the Niagara Whirlpool, a must see natural wonder.

Along the way, join the fun interactive scavenger hunt designed to emphasize the gorge’s unique geology, wildlife and history. This hands-on experience is perfect for families, nature lovers, and adventurous travelers seeking an exciting outdoor activity that will be a highlight of your visit to Niagara Falls, NY.

Activity location

Devil's Hole State Park
- 5986 Niagara Scenic Parkway
- 14305, Niagara Falls, New York, United States

Meeting/Redemption Point

Lewiston Road & Garfield Avenue
- 14305, Lewiston, New York, United States

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

Check availability

Sorry this activity isn't available on Wed, Feb 11

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What's included, what's not

Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Professional English Speaking Tour guide

Know before you book

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Max 2 dogs per tour allowed for $12 per dog with 25-100lbs
Must be able walk up and down 400+ uneven stone steps

Activity itinerary

Devil's Hole State Park

Meet your guide at the Devils Hole State Park. There is free parking at Devil's Hole park (no oversized RV parking). We will meet at the restroom building at the north end of the park. Devil's Hole Park offers views of the Niagara River, New York Power Authority Dam and Lewiston/Queston Bridge to Canada. We will have a brief overview of the tour and a hiking safety discussion. We will begin the hike by descending 400+ stone steps into the Niagara River Gorge. From there will head south on the path towards Devils Hole.

Devil's Hole State Park

The hiking path is wide and flat at first and can get muddy if we had recent rain. The trail begins to narrow and gets rocky and slopes into the gorge. Your duide will give you tips of how to safely navigate this part of the trail. We will reach Devils Hole and discuss historical significance of the area.

Whirlpool State Park

We will contune hiking toward the Whirlpool and learn about the old Niagara River Gorge Railway. We will navigate through some large rocks, tree roots and see rock slides all while having views the the Niagara River. As we get closer to the Whilpool you'll see and hear the roar of the Class 5 rapids. We will stop at key spots of some photos and water breaks. stops for photos of the swirling aqua blue water.

Whirlpool State Park

We will reach Butterfly Rock Landing at the Whirlpool. Enjoy some free time for independent exploration and to experience the powerful twists and churs of the rapids. You can also just sit and relax, enjoy blu-green aqua river water, watch and wave to the jet boats or the Aero Car above you. Your guide will be happy to use your phone or camera to take photos of your group.

Whirlpool State Park

We will head back 1/2 mile to the Whirlpool stone staircase and hike 400+ step stone to the rim of the gorge. This is the most challenging part of the hike, but we will stop as many times as needed to rest and take water breaks.

Whirlpool State Park

When the entire group reaches to the top of the stairs, we will hike 1/2 mile along the upper rim of the gorge to the Whirlpool overlook. There you will be able to see the Buttlerfly rock below and the areas we explored.

Devil's Hole State Park

Our last stop will be for a bathroom break at the small Whirlpool park visitors center. From there there will be two options to return to the Devil's Hole Parking lot starting point: Option 1: Your guide will wait with the group and take the free shuttle bus back to our starting point at Devils hole. This will save you time and enegry, especailly for people who are tired or looking to save time. Option 2: You will hike along the upper rim gorge trail back to Devil's Hole parking lot one your own without the guide. This one mile hike is on a wide dirt path and will add 30-45 minutes to the tour.

Location

Activity location

Devil's Hole State Park
- 5986 Niagara Scenic Parkway
- 14305, Niagara Falls, New York, United States

Meeting/Redemption Point

Lewiston Road & Garfield Avenue
- 14305, Lewiston, New York, United States
5100 Niagara Scenic Pkwy
- 5100 Niagara Scenic Parkway
- 14305, Niagara Falls, New York, United States

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