This is a lovely hike early in the day. Tons of stairs, you have to go up them on the way back. The path is fairly well marked, but has plenty of areas with a drop off so pay attention. I'm pretty familiar with this hike and enjoy it. Easy parking nearby. read more

Devil's Hole State Park is just a short distance from Whirlpool State Park. Tip: From the overlook, you can't see Devil's Hole; you'll have to hike down the trail to see it. The rocks along the wall on the trail are VERY sharp, so excercise caution while you're hiking here - it's a LONG way to the store for band-aids ;-) read more

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Yesterday morning was my first time hiking at Devil's Hole State Park. To the right of the parking area, there are two bathrooms with sinks. There is also a water fountain that is three tiered. The top tier is to refill a water bottle. The bottom tier is to have dogs drink from. It's a really great idea that I was really pleased about. The steps down to the water/trails were tough but taking the steps back up were even tougher. There were over 300. I'd love to return and try the him again. It was really enjoyable. read more

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One of my favorite trails - there's some elevation (about 700ft of gain) and the trail brings you down to the beautiful and mighty Niagara River. I've recently begun trail running here and I think it's an excellent trail to run, however - due to its popularity and certain narrowness in some spots, it can be a little tricky navigating around people. There are a good amount of parking spots at the trail. Once you arrive, you can hike along the river to the next set of stairs which will take you back up and you can hike back to the parking lot on the upper elevation. However, I recommend going even further past the set of stairs and you can find some real quick rapids as you hike close to the bridge going to Canada. It's a wonderful sight with massive running water! If you hike the trail at a slow pace, expect about 3 hours and a total of 4 miles or so, depending on how far you go past the second set of stairs. If you're a quick hiker, it will take about 2 hours...and if you trail run, I'd plan 1 hour or less for the hike! read more

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Beautifulllll. So there's multiple trails around the gorge. Definitely pull up a map pnline or do some research to know what's best for you. We did "devil's hole." The trail was a little hard to find, we parked in a parking area and then went left, kept going until we found the stairs. To get to the bottom probably takes about ten minutes. Not bad at all, but definitely BE CAREFUL! The stairs are steep and there aren't railings. I would NOT go if its wet outside or getting dark. Once at the bottom, you can go either left or right. The forest isn't too thick, but still be careful where you walk. Amazing views, an experience you likely won't be able to get anywhere else. I loved being so close to the water. Its a lot of fun. The trip back up the stairs was rough. I am in moderate shape, and the stairmaster is always my nemesis. Take lots of breaks, bring water, wear comfortable shoes, go on a cool day. I wouldn't say its a hard hike, but stairs can be tough. Absolutely worth it! read more

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This was a good park but could be improved if they had more amenities. I think they had restrooms but no sinks. They removed the grills as well which put a damper on our plan to have a picnic. The path was well maintained (but not paved, so wear sneakers or hiking shoes). It would be more helpful if they had signs to let you know along the way where you were and/or a trail map. Views are great. Trail is flat until you get to the steps, and there's a lot of them, but there are landings to take breaks if you need them. read more

This was by far one of the coolest trails I've hiked. As tourists we weren't sure what to expect so sadly we weren't dressed for hiking. We certainly got a workout in. The views were so amazing and the weather was perfect. Some of the trails were muddy so we didn't get to the main attraction, Devil's Hole. We did see the whirlpools. I think what makes this trail so worthwhile is the unexpected paths, twists, and turns. A woman at a diner suggested we check it out and we're so glad we did. P.S. the stairs on the way up WILL give you a workout. read more

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Unbelievable, how great this trail is. Starting at whirlpool state park, all the way to the steps of the devil's hole. Can easily be a couple of miles, and that's just the path. I have no idea, how many steps are actually leading down to the river. I can tell you though, if your not in shape. Coming back up, you will wish you stayed up top. I had to take 4-5 breaks, and I was 5 more steps from ending it all. Lol come for the trails, and the sights. There is a section where you can grill, and picnic. Unfortunately, right now the devil's hole (stairs) is closed right now. They are doing some maintenance work on the steps. But you can still hike down the whirlpool steps. read more

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This park is beautiful when the trees are green and full and even when the trees are all barren. I love spending time in nature and seeing all of its beauty. If you have time to kill in the area, come to this trail because you are able to get so close to the river and see how strong it is. It's amazing seeing the force nature has. Just remember to allot time to get out of here before it gets to dark! read more

Devil's Hole State Park - A beautiful afternoon spent here - Parks Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

This was our first time to Devil's Hole. It was a moderate hike and took us about 3 hours to do the entire trail with a few stops in between. Such beautiful scenery. Several people had their dogs and now that we know what the terrain is like, we will surely bring our pup next time! The stairs coming back up we're the toughest part of the hike! read more

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This is my favorite hiking spot in the "Buffalo" area (more like Niagara Falls). I always start off in the parking lot, head down the stairs, and then walk a couple of miles to the rocks. My fiancé, pup, and I decided to try a different trail as the stairs were closed. We went on the Gorge Rim Trail which was more of a walk than a hike. You get a beautiful view of the gorge during this walk. There were also not a lot of people on this trail despite it being a nice day. It seemed like the Scenic Parkway Trail which I normally go on was super congested. The public restrooms were closed so that was a bummer. read more

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What a great YELP event today at this wonderful beautiful park! Thank you Alex for arranging this. And thank you to Labelle Epicure for providing a free lunch. It was tasty and perfect for our hike. Very nice to meet some great yelpers too! Here's a group photo of us! read more

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Good size park, challenging trails (lots of stairs), beautiful views though so it's all worth it. Definitely recommend checking out of you're looking for a good 2-4 hour hiking experience! read more

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Okay, technically I started from Whirlpool State Park, but its trail meets up with the Devil's Hole trail, which I followed for awhile. Apparently the stairs down from Devil's Hole State Park aren't as nice, so you might be better off starting from Whirlpool State Park as I did, and making a right at the bottom for the trail for the rapids. The views are amazing, and the rapids are impressive. There's a lot of cool rocks and small caves, including one that looks like a great place to hide under a pile of leaves and scare tourists (not that I'd actually advocate something so foolish.) Apparently there's a bike path as well, if you're trying to decide between parks. read more

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There are two major trails, both about a mile each. It's not difficult but there are rocks/ boulders at certain areas. The hike ends with a beautiful view of the rapids and whirlpool. There is a nice area to just chill by the water. Tip- amazing photography spots. It should be a 100 times better when the Fall colors are in full bloom. read more

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Beautiful and amazing doesn't even begin to describe Devil's Hole. The water is so blue year round. We went hiking during the fall season and the tree colors are breathtaking. We seen some fishermen when we got to the bottom. Awesomely they caught a huge King Salmon, probably close to 20 pounds! The hike was a little tough, but I am 24 weeks pregnant and haven't hiked since summer, lol. It was all worth the hike though. Lots of steps so bring comfy shoes! Once you get down all the steps you can take a left and walk a mile to Whirlpool State Park, and 5 more to the actual Niagara Falls. They've got signs to help you get around. Clear view of Canada on the other side of the river. We seen little John boats, but I'm not sure how they got down there or where the boat access is? read more

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Really fun hike! Here are my tips: - The road is clearly marked with signs on where to park. - there are lots of picnic tables as well as a couple BBQ pits at the parking lot. also picnic tables below during the hike - there are a lot of steps. we went at a very slow pace with an active group and it was very easy and took us 35 minutes 1 way to get down. - really beautiful and nicely kept trail read more

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Awesome place but very dangerous. I've hiked all my life I'm from the ADK mountain region and this place is like a maze of rock. Beautiful views of the river and gorges below but watch out for falling rocks as well as slick and muddy surfaces. read more

Devil's Hole State Park - Devils Hole - Parks Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

Currently, all the media attention is on the Falls, both American and Canadian, because of the frigid temperatures that are icing up the landscape. However, don't forget Devil's Hole. Granted, the stone stairs descending into the gorge are snow-filled, slippery and foolishly dangerous if not stepping gingerly. If you're willing to factor in a possible sprained ankle or worse then the payoff awaits you at the bottom. It's a winter wonderland down there. read more

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Looking for a great workout or a tranquil walk near the Niagara Gorge? Well Devil's Hole State Park is your answer! This state park overlooks the Devil's Hole Rapids complete with picnic areas, scenic overlooks, and a variety of hiking trails. I would highly recommend staying on the marked trails as the rapids flow very quickly and it is dangerous. I decided to hike down to the gorge on one of our 90 degree days this past summer. Boy oh boy am I glad I brought water with me. While you decide the speed in which you want to walk, the stairs are no joke! There is a stone staircase that leads down to the base of the gorge which is part of the trail. Along the way are spectacular views of the rapids and various rock layers. Once you get down to the bottom of the gorge there are cut outs where you can walk out a bit further and really feel the rush of the rapids gush past. It's quite cool. Bring your camera! Definitely check this place out. We're lucky to have it in our own backyard!!! Pets are welcome, just be sure they're on a leash - and bring water! It's GORGE-ous :) read more

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Wow! What a beautiful place! We did the devils hole trail down to the whirlpools and it was so pretty. I'd definitely recommend bringing your hiking shoes. The stairs down are rough and uneven and there's some slippery areas along the trail. We did the round trip 2.5 mike hike in 75 minutes. It was beautiful! read more

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I live in this area. I've been down to devils hole. The pictures are beautiful but to be there in person is just mind blowing!! The water is very dangerous but at the same time it's absolutely breathtaking. By the shore the water looks inviting but don't let that fool you. It will suck you under and before you know it your way down from where you went in at!!! This author did a wonderful job with the information and pictures of the devils hole. I never knew that the cave was that long? But I was also to chicken to go inside of the cave. The whole area that the author took pictures of is just breathtaking and down about a mile is the mighty Niagara Falls. So if you ever get a chance or just want something to do for the day come here you won't regret it. But stay out of the water!!! read more

Great hiking trail. Scenery is amazing and the trail is a bit challenging. I definitely do not recommend this trail for little ones.

Wow! I was completely taken aback by the natural beauty of this place. This was my first time visiting and my first time hiking that make the experience all the memorable. My husband and I met a Yelp group here and took part in the intermediate hike to the Devil's Gorge (or Hole) for lunch. Being the city girl I am, I came dressed in a short-sleeve shirt, shorts, and running shoes -- and actually did ok! There were a couple spots where I was wondering whether or not I was going to meet the Lord, but thought the overall hike wasn't too horrible. As we made our trek down to the water, things became prettier and prettier with every step. We ended up having a delicious boxes lunch as we took in the surrounding views and crashing water some feet in front of us. I can definitely see myself coming back here and trying it again! read more

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Great runs and long walks. Peaceful and challenging! Great in Summer to break a sweat and Fall for brisk fresh air. Go early (7-11)to avoid peak time . read more

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"Devil's Hole" is actually what I call a certain private spot on my girlfriend. If you knew how completely and utterly evil she was, and how she makes a living, you'd completely understand that sentiment. However, I like my girls evil, so she's perfect for me. I've been to Devil's Hole on many occasions and I often bring guests and visitors from out of town here because it's one of the beautiful undiscovered gems of the region. The Gorge is one of the most spectacular and underrated places in WNY. It's absolutely breathtaking, like our own mini Grand Canyon with beautiful crystal blue waters rushing and gushing at the bottom like an excited college student. If you haven't been here, you should "rapidly" fix that and get down here. I'm going to count 374 steps next time I go, and if it's more, or less, then Amber's boyfriend will have plenty to answer for. Now if you've never been to Devil's Hole, then much like Whirlpool Park nearby, you must come and see it for yourself. It's amazing for the views, for hiking, for the sheer drama and inspiration and awe-inducing panoramas and scenery. Make sure you take a camera and don't come around here if you're afraid of rushing water, or don't like steep inclines and steps. If you are in WNY and you've never been here, you're missing out. Come and check it out. read more

If you are wanting to see the Devils hole please WEAR comfortable shoes. The stairway to the Devils hole is very steep and there is no handrails past the first set of I would say 20 steps of the way and there is lots of dirt and rocks. Also remember for every step you go down that's a step you'll have to take to go back up so be prepared to get a workout. read more

Devil's Hole (the gorge) makes for a wonderful hike along the bottom of Niagara Falls. The park itself, where the parking lot is located, is a medium sized area with bathrooms and beautiful views. The highlight is the hike down into the gorge. There are 374 steps (my boyfriend counted on the way back up) to get down and up, which is probably the most difficult part of the hike. Once you're down there, it's mostly flat for probably a half mile and then it gets a little more hilly and rocky. It took us about an hour to walk two miles, at which point we got to a nice flat area where you can walk right up to the river and check out the whirlpools. The whirlpool jet boats come by about every 20 minutes or so and it's always fun to watch them. There's also a ton of people fishing down there. From what I hear, it's one of the more popular fishing spots and I can imagine why. This is really a hike that you can make as easy or as difficult as you want. Whatever you choose, you will always be rewarded with the spectacular views. read more

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Had such a fun time hiking this trail, the actual devils hole is a great place to cool down. It has a scary feel to it but the wind wraps around in there. Weird everyone I passed didn't know where it was but when I was hiking I seen it and climbed right into it. The whole trail is truly gorgeous and relaxing! read more

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I did the trail today and boy was getting down and out of it tough! This makes the Canadian Gorge trail look like a walk in the park. :P The Devils Hole trail starts with a very lengthy stone/rock stairs that are very steep at times. Going down was hard enough but going up was insanely hard, I had to stop several times (Note to Self: I must train harder at the gym!). Once you make it down the long set of stairs you can go north or south along the trail. The north trail is narrow and a bit challenging which leads you to the fence of the power conservation place, the south trail is a much longer one and wide and easier to walk. I made it just past the area where there is a huge cave in the escarpment you can climb into. There are various spots you can stop and admire the whirlpool rapids/scenery--it's breathtaking. All in all, this is one nice place, with a challenging start, and tough walk back up. What a workout! read more

We try to hike here at least once a year. It takes a couple of hours to really enjoy the hike to whirlpool falls. It is hard to believe that this is in our own backyard and people from all over the world come to visit. There are 400+ steps on the way down and that may seem overwhelming, but when you are on the trail the view is well worth it. I love venturing down to the whirlpool falls where the flat rocks are to just sit back, relax and enjoy the views. read more

Devil's Hole State Park - Enjoying the views at Whirlpool State Park. Looking towards the Canadian side from the American. - Parks Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

Beautiful trails & turquoise water! Loved that there are dog friendly trails, just be sure to pack water because we didn't come across any along the way! Tons of lookout/photo op spots along the trails, though! read more

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Beautiful! Pictures galore! Skill level: The hike down the stairs is easy to moderate. The hike up the stairs is moderate to hard. Basically, if you are a novice and/or out of shape the hike up the stairs is going to suck big time! Take mini breaks up the stairs! Take some more pictures and selfies! Wear good hiking/walking shoes and watch out for loose steps (not many) and slanted steps (many). Carry lightly... Bring a small bag/book bag that can carry water bottle(s) maybe a light picnic.....just keep your hands free! Enjoy the views and wild life! But look down to where you are walking/hiking......you don't want to fall! Blood, scratches, and bruises isn't a good look unless you are little crazy. Lover man and I hike down closer to the water. If you choice to do this, please make sure you are able to climb back up! LOL. Watch out for the all the rocks! They aren't very stable and some are very slippery! If you are physically out of shape..... Again it will be fairly easy going down but going back up is not easy! Life is short yo! Keep living....lol The water is so clear and cold! I loved it! There were a lot of people fishing. Oh, we saw a few whirl pool jet boats going by.... Fun! read more

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The views along the hiking trail in Devil's Hole are spectacular. The river and the rock formations are beautiful, and the rapids are really cool. It's one of the gems of the Niagara area that hasn't been commercialized at all. It's a nice escape into nature. If you're in the area, it's worth taking the time to check it out. The hike is fairly easy as hikes go... But, it's a hike, not a leisurely walking trail. I stumbled upon it without really planning to visit, and as a moderately fit man in my mid-twenties who was wearing sneakers (albeit not the "right" ones), it was fun and it was exercise but not excessively taxing. There are a number of stretches, though, where you have to pay attention to keep your footing, and going down and then up hundreds of steps is pretty difficult for a lot of people. Also, be advised that some segments of the "steps" have deteriorated, such that you're really climbing up or down a pile of rocks. So, don't be too intimidated by it, but wear good shoes for rocky/slanted terrain, bring water (and maybe a snack) and set aside enough time so that you can take a leisurely pace and take breaks on the way up the steps if you need them. read more

One of the best hiking spots I've found in Western NY that's a short, easy drive from Buffalo. If there's one piece of advice I'd give, it's to be prepared for the climb back up. Going down the stairs and doing the entire trail from the Devil's Hole stairs all the way down to what looks to be the ruins of an old concrete pier, and then back to the stairs is a relatively moderate exercise. The trail has very easy level portions and near the far side is advanced rock falls to climb over that can be tricky. However after all of that, the climb back up can be BRUTAL. I'm a youngish person in ok condition and I have to stop frequently to rest up to continue the climbing. By the time I get back up, I'm utterly exhausted, but it's an exhausted in the best possible way and despite that, it's well worth the trip and effort you put in. You can take either the DH stairs back up or about halfway back you can take the Whirlpool Park stairs. The Whirlpool stairs are easier to do than the DH stairs, but they're still tough. Keep that in mind if you're running low on energy on the way back from the far end. be sure to take PLENTY of water. Lastly, while dogs are allowed, don't take them down into the gorge. If the stairs are that brutal on us, imagine how the poor doogos feel! read more

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I admit this is a copy of my review for Whirlpool state park but since I feel like these two places are one and the same I feel like the information is relevant..sooo...This trail and it's connector to Whirlpool State park is truly a special and amazing place in Western New York. The walk down the steps and growing view of the beautiful Niagara River and it's power is just amazing and I love the trail down below. There is plenty of access to get you nearby to the water but just be careful if you choose to get close. The water in the river is moving at high speeds and it's very dangerous. If you don't feel confident in your ability to do some bouldering and hiking on some narrow paths this might not be the place for you. The scenery down here is incredible and the leaves in fall are breathtaking. I am always truly and completely stunned by the violence and power of the river on this trail and it never fails to blow me away in it's awesome power. Whirlpool and Devil's hole connect down in the gorge and there are two paths up to the top. Both are steep stone staircases and will take the energy out of you if you go to quickly. The ending point of the Whirlpool trail is the best with a lookout over the great whirlpool and the river looking northwards. Having a sit on a rock and just taking in the raw power of nature is just absolutely awesome! Seriously one of my favorite places and parks ever, and not one to be missed! read more

Disclaimer: I am an amateur hiker. I love to do it when I get the chance, but I definitely don't have super dooper hiking boots, a regiment, or a huge wealth of technical vocabulary about the subject. Now that that's out of the way, to the review. Devil's Hole - or the Gorge as my friends say - is wonderful. It is a great hike, with a lot of different difficulties to it (different paths to take, labeled with colors). All have great views of the river and, in fact, get you quite close to the whirlpool. BTW - Have you been to the whirlpool yet? DO it! It's amazing. Did you know Aristotle thought there was a whirlpool where dead things came in and could be brought back to life? Yeah, he saw a bird dive into one - and bam, it was 'alive' again. I digress. Devil's hole is for all kinds of hikers - and it's great exercise. As you work, the river always provides a wonderful breeze to cool you off. And the trees are shady and nice too. There are some excellent picnic locations - huge rocks to just sit and see water splashing all around you. Very romantic - if you're into that - but also very fun to take a few sandwiches and enjoy a day in the Falls without being a tourist. read more

What a beautiful park. We walked with our dog along the Niagara Gorge Rim Trail for a bit before we took the stairs down to the Whirlpool Rapids. Great views all along the way. While it may be a lot of stairs for some, it was worth the trek. On this hot day, it was still a lovely hike as a result of the trails being mostly shaded and the water proving a light breeze. I've been to Niagara Falls many times and never been to this park until now. I'm so glad I finally made it here. read more

Great destination to spend an afternoon. This section of the trail is very scenic but the trails can be challenging so I would recommend wearing hiking sneakers as water often leaks downwards onto the rocks and creates slippery conditions. The trails can be narrow so it's important to pay attention to where you're walking because you do not want to slip and fall anywhere near that water! The signage is a little confusing. We used our map to locate staircases and pathways but at one point it seemed we reached a dead end and had to ask to find our way back. You aren't supposed to go down by the water as the current is extremely powerful, however we made our way downwards, proceeded with caution of course and grabbed a spot on a rock to enjoy the view. The color of the water is stunning, definitely bring your camera! There are benches near the staircases to stop and have lunch. Make sure you bring a water bottle because I didn't and that was a huge mistake. Just remember as far as you go forward, you must walk back too, it's quite the workout! read more

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Devil's Hole trail is awesome, minus the few dangerous sections of the stairs. The entire duration offers a beautiful view with moderate level trails. There are several different trails that are clearly marked with names, length, and difficulty. It is dog friendly (please leash!) and there are specific bike trails. Parking is free in front of Devil's and Whirlpool trails and there are only garbage cans around the entrance. read more

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