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Niagara Falls State Park Hiking Trails

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Niagara Falls may steal the spotlight, but there’s so much more to discover beyond the brink. Explore over five miles of scenic walking and hiking trails throughout Niagara Falls State Park and the Niagara Gorge, offering options for every pace, from easy riverside strolls to invigorating hikes down into the Gorge. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find endless ways to enjoy the park, including fishing, birding in this designated Audubon Important Bird Area, biking, picnicking, photography, and soaking in breathtaking views at every turn. However you choose to explore, Niagara Falls State Park invites you to experience the natural beauty that surrounds the Falls.

Niagara Gorge Trailhead Center

The Niagara Gorge hiking trails all begin at the Niagara Gorge Trailhead Center, located in front of Great Lakes 360 and the gateway to some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region. The local Gorge Trail System offers both easy trails to follow and challenging sections of trails that have steep stairs to climb and rocks to scramble over. Please be aware that conditions are ever-changing in the Niagara Gorge, and hikers should be prepared with sturdy footwear as well as water to drink. Hikers must stay on marked trails and avoid entering the water.

Guided Niagara Gorge hiking tours are offered mid-May through October.

Call 716-282-5154 for group rates and information. Please note that there is a five-person minimum for tours.

Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Trail

This easy, one-hour round trip hike begins at the Trailhead Building. Recommended for beginners, there is no age requirement for this trail.

A family hiking on the Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Trail with autumn leaves in vibrant colors.

Upper Great Gorge Trail

Another great trail for beginners, this easy-breezy, two-hour round trip hike begins at the Trailhead Building and follows the Great Gorge Railway Trail. There is no age requirement for this trail.

Four people walking on the Upper Great Gorge Trail through a snowy landscape, wearing winter clothes and snowshoes.

Devil’s Hole Rapids and Giant Rock

As a more moderate trail, guests hiking Devil’s Hole Rapids and Giant Rock must be at least 8 years of age. The trail begins at Devil’s Hole State Park. It’s a picturesque, 2.5-hour hike round trip.

Devil’s Hole with swirling rapids, surrounded by lush green trees and hills under a cloudy sky.

Whirlpool Rapids Adventure Trail

One of the most challenging trails that Niagara Falls State Park has to offer, the Whirlpool Rapids Adventure Trail is recommended for experienced hikers who are at least 8 years of age. The trail begins at Whirlpool State Park. It’s a three-hour hike round trip, and you can expect some rock scrambling.

A couple standing on rocks on the Whirlpool Rapids Adventure Trail, surrounded by greenery.

Trail Maps

Gorge Trail Map
A person riding a red bike by an overlook at Niagara Falls State Park on a sunny day.

Park Information

If you’re new to Niagara Falls State Park, we can help. This is everything you need to know to make your trip a success.

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A scenic view of a bridge over a river at sunset, with the Niagara Falls skyline and lush greenery.

Explore the Region

There’s more to Niagara Falls than just the park. Here’s what’s close by and worth your time.

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