Devil's Hole to Whirlpool: 4 Hour Niagara River Trek
Description
NOTE: A minimum of 4 people must first book this tour for it to take place, then others can book. 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 stone staircase into the Niagara River Gorge. From there, the trail follows the Niagara River, past Devil’s Hole and along the scenic gorge to the famous Whirlpool Flats and the powerful Whirlpool Rapids — some of the most impressive Class VI rapids in North America. You'll have time to explore on your own. We then continues back up to the top of the gorge and overlook Whirlpool. Along the way, an interactive scavenger hunt emphasize the area's unique geology, wildlife and history. This hands-on experience is perfect for families, nature lovers, and adventure seeking tourists. This exciting outdoor activity that will be a highlight of your visit to Niagara Falls, NY.
Tour Options
Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- 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
Reviews(2)
Eric was a great guide! He was engaging, and knowledgeable. He shared interesting facts and history about the hike, the local area, and various other great hiking opportunities across the US. He also made snacks and water available. He even pointed out a fossil along the trail! I had never seen one before. Definitely recommend the trail and Eric as your guide! I will ask for him by name if I return to Niagara Falls.
Thanks for you review and I'm glad you enjoyed your guided hiking tour with Eric.
It was a beautiful sunny day at Devil’s Hole. We met our guide named Eric. He was very friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating checking in regularly if he was setting a good pace for us. He had many great stories and shared fun facts along the route. I was with my husband and two sons (16 and 23 year old). They all really liked Eric and he took the time to get to know each of us. My kids loved that he too was a hockey fan of the Minnesota Wild. I would absolutely book another tour with Eric. Thanks for a perfect day! We thoroughly enjoyed our time together and felt safe. 👍🏻
I'm glad you enjoyed your hike with Eric and hope you had a wonderful trip to Niagara Falls. Eric said he ejoyed meeting your family!
