Niagara Falls State Park celebrates the awe-inspiring nature and protected wildlife of the Niagara River Gorge in northeastern New York. In addition to Niagara’s famed American Falls, Niagara Gorge hiking offers spectacular vistas you won’t find anywhere else.
Winding along the Niagara River Gorge, the trail system extends from Niagara Falls north to Lewiston, New York. The park’s popular Rim Trail extends from Horseshoe Falls to connect with the Upper Great Gorge Trail and on to the Whirlpool Rapids. Parts of the trail are near the water’s edge and allow fascinating views of the Niagara River Gorge’s sedimentary rock walls.
Bird watching is a favorite park pastime, and the Audubon Niagara Birding Trail includes vista points to observe birds above and below the Falls. Keep your binoculars ready for nested peregrine falcons, ducks, loons, gulls, purple sandpipers, belted kingfishers, chickadees, and many more species.
Niagara Gorge – Over 15 Miles of Trails
Segments of the Niagara Gorge Trail System may be reached by car, including Whirlpool State Park and Devil’s Hole. Hikers should be prepared, however, as Niagara Gorge hiking includes challenging sections including steep stairs and rocky terrain. Comfortable attire and sturdy footwear is recommended.
Running parallel to the Gorge Rim Trail is the Robert Moses Parkway Trail, a year-round multiuse recreational trail for cycling, rollerblading, running and walking. This three-mile Niagara River Gorge hiking trail is easily accessed from the Niagara Falls Gorge Discovery Center, as well as Whirlpool and Devil’s Hole state parks.
Niagara Falls State Park offers guided tours on the trail system that begin at Niagara Gorge Discovery Center’s trailhead. For more information about hiking the Niagara River Gorge or to make a guided tour reservation, call (716) 278-0820 in season.