The flowers are blooming, the chill and snows are gone, and the beautiful flowers are blooming!! Get out to see what New York State Parks have to offer, as there are a lot of state parks in the Niagara Falls area!!! read more

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We hiked this park on a whim- I couldn't find much about it online but it turned out to be my favorite activity out of everything we did on the US side of Niagra Falls. And as a bonus it was free, and better than all the tourist attractions we paid for. We came on a weekday morning and from the parking lot we took the Niagra Gorge Rim trail down to the Whirlpool trail. The view from the rim is gorgeous. The hike down is challenging, lots of stairs but very scenic and worth it. There's lots of greenery, views of the water and some shade. At the base there are rock benches where you can rest. We were pleasantly surprised to find the trail took us directly down to the water. We took a break on a large rock and even dipped our feet in the water. You can't swim here- there's fast moving water, but it's a peaceful place to relax. We had the place to ourselves and relaxed for about 30 minutes. We watched as the Aero Car went back and forth above on the Canada side and eventually a Jet boat came through and disturbed our serenity, splashing waves against the rocks. We retraced our steps back up the steep stairway trail. We only passed about 3 people during our entire hike. This is a hidden gem. There's a not very clean porta potty in the parking lot and the trail is dog-friendly. Lots of parking is available. read more

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One of the many parks near Niagara Falls and along the Niagara River. There are so many great places to either explore or just stand and admire the beauty and power of the water. Whirlpool Park shows you the power of the Falls. Obviously when you're next to the falls you can witness that but here down the river you can see how powerful it still is. You have the option of staying along the top rim along a very comfortable path or going down right along the river. Just pay attention to the signs! The trail is easy but the water can be dangerous. There are several other options for admiring this beauty. If you want something a little more challenging you can go down the road about a mile to Devil's Hope State Park. 2021-129 read more

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I've always loved hiking the trails along the Niagara River. Because the stairs at the Devil's Hole were under repair I decided to try the Whirlpool entrance. I must say, I struggle a little finding the path down to the water but once I found it, I was fine. I needed to get out and find something to do. I've been steadily gaining weight in the wake of Covid19 shutting down everything and I used this hike as an opportunity to really push myself. It was tough at some points but I really enjoyed watching the water as I walked along the path. It was a really hot day but thankfully the canopy of trees helped in some areas. Once we made it down to the water I was so enamored with the beauty of the river. It was worth every step. Having lived in Niagara Falls my whole life, sometimes I forget to take advantage of the beauty that's right in my backyard. It was amazing. I can't wait to do it again. read more

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~2 mile round trip (~1 hour at a moderate speed) from the parking near Devil's Hole to the rocks at Whirlpool, including ~300 steps down to the lower level. The steps are steep and I would use caution if you are an unsteady walker or have comorbid conditions. The views throughout (even if you don't make it to the steps), especially the rapids are beautiful and is definitely worth the time to check it out. Optimal hours on weekends to avoid crowds are before 11am. read more

Whirlpool State Park - Hiking Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

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amazing view of the rapids making the biggest whirlpool along the river of Niagara. watch out the hanging cable car (Whirlpool Aero car) hanging on the top of the whirlpool. this overlook area is a nature marvel. love the turquoise color of the river. read more

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Nice park but could be improved with more amenities. The bathrooms were locked in September because they were closed for the season, yet there are grills, garbage cans, water fountains, and picnic tables. If you can picnic there, don't you think the bathrooms should be available? The picnic area was spaced out which was nice. Lots of parking too. read more

Great park! Construction of a really nice playground is underway. There's a lot of picnic tables, including some overlooking the gorge and along the trail. The trail is great. I'm afraid of heights and while it's a little steep and lacking in the side rails department, I made it down and back up without a problem (except being winded on the way back up.) The trail also meets up with the Devil's Hole trail, which I walked a little ways as well. Beautiful views and great exercise. read more

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If you want to get away from the touristy hustle and bustle of Niagara Falls, this is the spot to get back to nature. Whirlpool State Park is a short 2.5 mile drive from Niagara Falls State park or if you have a lot of time you can walk the trail along the river for basically the same distance. Whirlpool State Park has a large parking lot and small building out front with a little bit of history and trail maps. There's a big lookout overview area of "The Whirlpool". You can see the Canadian side having all the fun with a golf course, a grown-up jungle gym, I believe I saw zip line and boat tour doing spins in the water but you have nature! Seems like Canada made a more 'Merican move than America itself. You can walk down the Niagara Scenic trail towards Devil's Hole State Park for less than a mile and from there you can take the stairs down to the side of the river and hike towards either Devil's Hole to the North(right) or Whirlpool to the south (left). This will give you a ground level view of the beauty. It can be somewhat strenuous as there are a lot of stairs even if the entire hike is only 3-4 miles to the parking lot and back. There are picnic tables to relax and eat at the bottom as well. It was a welcome escape from the craziness, I just I wish went in the fall and spent more time on the trail. read more

It's free to park and go inside so how can you beat that. We hiked down those hundreds of stone steps to the river bank and it was beautiful. The area is very selfie friendly and it's a pleasure to see the changing colors of the leaves. The hike back up those hundreds of stone steps was not difficult at all. read more

Yes yes yes! This place is unreal. We parked at the whirlpool overlook parking lot and then walked down to the lookout over the water. Full fall foliage in effect it was absolutely stunning. I have also been in the summer, and it is still impressive even minus the fall colors. Get out there NOW if you want to see amazing foliage before the leaves are gone, and it's stick season. read more

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The Whirlpool is beautiful and the hike down to the gorge is even better. There are some picnic tables at the park, but the real thrill is climbing the steps and hiking the rocks over to the gorge. Keep going until you get right next to the Class 6 rapids and feel the might of the Niagara River. I personally prefer the Devil's Hole hike which adds about two miles of challenge and terrain, but the ascent from Whirlpool State Park and back can be made in about 90 minutes fairly easily. Bring a picnic lunch with you to enjoy a nice lunch on the rocks after you hike down. The best tip? Keep going. There's a part of the trail where it's a little confusing if it's the end, but if you keep going--you'll be rewarded with some great views. Be safe and hike well! read more

Went down the Whirlpool Rapids stairs and trail yesterday which just reopened after some maintenance and it was nice! We went down on yet another hot day this summer but we brought water to stay hydrated. Upon descending the stairs we noticed two Police officers standing there. Not sure what was happening but there didn't seem to be anything urgent. We continued down the stairs which were in very good shape as they seemed to just put some new steps in. Unfortunately there are no hand rails so you have to really be careful. It took us about 5 minutes to go down. We then walked along the trail which varies from simple to moderate difficulty. And, once you reach the big boulders on the south end you really have to maneuver yourself onto them. Once on the large boulders you can view the aerocar above you and watch the jet-boats go by in the rapids below--very cool. Some people were also fishing off the boulder. We were on the trail a couple of hours. It goes by fast and the heat can get to you, thankfully lots of the trail is under the shade of trees. This is yet another amazing Niagara gorge experience and highly recommended to any local or tourist! Don't forget a bottle of water! read more

Whirlpool State Park - Hiking Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

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It is a quick stroll from the parking lot to see the Whirlpool. Once you are there it is an amazing view of the Niagara Gorge. If you look across the river you I'll be able to wave to our Canadian friends. If you are there for a good hike, make sure you have water and a good pair of shoes. I don't recommend flip flops as there are sections of the trail that is very rocky. There is a trail that will lead you down to the Niagara river and towards the area called Devil's Hole. Warning: I would rate this trail as difficult as there are 6-8 flights of stairs that you will have to tackle on your way back. But, if you take breaks when needed you should be able to tackle it. I only wanted to warn those who may have knee, back and hip issues. Once you reach the bottom of the gorge you will find a hiking trail that is not only beautiful but is fun and adventurous. I would make sure you have at least have two hours to enjoy this trail as there are plenty of spots you want to stop and take photos. Tip: For those who are not familiar with this section of the river, you should be very careful not to slip and fall into the river or make the decision to wade in the river. The currents are extremely strong and has swept away many people who have dared to enter. Sadly, many of those people drown. read more

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If it takes you a while to swim across a pool, then that pool should be called a Whilepool. This one however is yet another gorgeous state park right alongside the stunning, breathtaking, dramatic Niagara Gorge and close to Devil's Hole and the bridge. I've been here a few times, and it's bleak in the winter (but still amazing) and absolutely spectacular in the summer. So I definitely recommend checking it out in warmer weather. If you've never explored this park, you're missing out, because the views and landscape are almost as dramatic as the falls itself. Come here and check it out, and tell me I'm wrong. Actually don't. I don't like to be told that. read more

It's a beautiful park that has a nice view! We didn't stay long but wish I did. There's a lot of picnic tables around the park that many families use. I heard there are a couple of nice trails that could go down to the river but those are pretty dangerous. Definitely worth a visit! read more

The view of the water is amazing and totally worth a visit. The park is an easy walk too. read more

Whirlpool State Park - Stunning view - Hiking Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

I would give it five stars because: 1. It was full of gorgeous whirlpools, caves, and nature 2. There were lots of dogs 3. We saw a blonde squirrel 4. It had a parking lot But I have to dock it one star because the signage was so hard to follow. There were some signs that didn't point in any particular direction, and we never could find the shuttle back OR the devil's hole, which would have been a funny thing to say I was at or in. read more

Give yourself plenty of time if you plan to hike all the way down to the bottom and then along the river. The stairs down (and back up) take awhile, and the path (we went left, but it also goes right) along the river goes a long ways. If you REALLY want to take it all in, I'd set aside at least half a day, if not more. There are plenty of side paths down closer to the water. It's very scenic, and the path isn't overly challenging, while still being fun. Highly recommended. read more

Could be better. Not very handicapped accessible. Some parts are a bit steep. Other parts are just to far off the beaten path read more

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I could live here! Very nice. I'll Definitely be coming back with fishing poles & bait. read more

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The views are spectacular and the color of the water is amazing!!! This is a great place to hike and get in those 10,000+ steps. read more

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I found this place by chance as I was scrolling through instagram and thought I'd write a review to post things I thought were good to know. Also, look at the pictures of this place on instagram, they're all really pretty and make you want to go hiking. Currently, the trail down to the water is closed for maintenance. So if you want to walk down to see the river, you have to use the trail/steps by Devil's hole state park. Aside from the maintenance, the main area to see the whirlpools is still open. There are a few good viewing spots where you can really see how powerful the whirlpools/water is. Fairly well maintained trails here. There's a good trail that I took that led us all the way to Devil's hole state park. Although, since there's construction going on right now, for part of the way you have to walk on the street. But there aren't any cars, it's a fairly flat walk, and about 1.5 miles. Parking is easy. There's a giant lot that's mostly empty. There are bathrooms. But they close at 3:30 pm. Park is open from dawn until dusk. read more

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This trail and it's connector Devils Hole 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

For the longest time my wife and I hiked Devil's Hole. It is still one of my favourite hikes, but it was a nice change to check out Whirlpool State Park. The Rim Trail is fairly well maintained and is very accessible. I love the views from the trail, you can see down into the gorge and across to the trails on the Canadian side of the river. There are stairs that lead down to the river, which are well maintained. The lookout section of the Rim Trail looks as though it was recently re-done and there is a spot to look down at the whirlpools. The day we were there, in early Spring, it was a nice day and quite a few people on the trail. The only disappointment was that the washrooms were not open (the first week of April) and there is really nowhere else to go on the trail. There was no indication on the washroom sign when the washrooms open for the season. The Rim Trail runs north-south(ish), we walked north this time, but will checkout the southern portion of the trail next time. read more

This is a nice park to stop at! When I went it wasn't super busy which was nice after coming from the falls where it's busy. They have restrooms which are clean and a few picnic tables, and they also had a couple food trucks in the parking lot when I stopped. It offers great views of the whirlpool area of the river and is a nice relaxing walk! read more

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This has a pretty great view so it's worth a stop as your making your way up to the Falls. There are some pretty intense hiking trails you can take down the side of the cliff to stand right beside the whirlpool if you're so inclined--we saw several groups who'd made it to the bottom as we looked on from above. I think those treks will take you 5 miles or so round trip so come prepared if that's your idea of a good time! read more

We hiked down into the gorge, following the Whirlpools Rapids trail. Well maintained. Stunning vistas. Highlight of our visit to Niagara. read more

I'm just giving it three stars only because we were there in the winter & couldn't see much of the park. We plan to visit again in the summer so we can do some hiking. read more

Whirlpool State Park - Hiking Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

When the stairs aren't flooded this is my favorite place to relax. Plenty of trail for privacy. Lots of snakes and caterpillars also, so watch out! The facilities look like they are cared after well enough. Excellent hiking, I recommend hiking shoes if possible because of the jagged rocks. **Favorite** read more

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The views are beautiful, and the top is very quiet and pleasant. However, the trail down to the whirlpool and up again past Devil's Hole is in poor condition. It's a little scary climbing down jagged, broken, sinking, often slick and muddy steps only to edge along a narrow, eroding path with little standing between you and deadly-fast water should you trip on a tree root. I'm mystified how locals can jog along the lower trail when at times there's barely room to walk single-file. However, the top rim trail is well-maintained and shady, and it's fun watching the speedboats smack into the waves while all the riders shriek in unison. read more

With only moments to go before we crossed into the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, we suddenly made a right into Whirlpool State Park. No this is not where your old dilapidated kitchen appliances retire to. This was and always will be my daughter and my first official visit to a Niagara Falls tourist attraction. It was also my first (and nearly my last) workout before crossing over (not to the great beyond) to Our great neighbors of the north, Canada. This was the perfect touristy appetizer to our Niagara Falls vacation. The walk and terrain were challenging to me (that's not saying much LOL). We saw the huge Great Wolf Loge across the way. Saving myself the $500+ a night they charge those who really like the view of the whirlpool. It's very nice, but not THAT nice. LOL. All in all it was a great way to start the vacation and I recommend it to all. read more

A great place to spend the day. Park your car at Niagara Glen Natural Reserve, take your hiking boots and comfortable clothing and you're on your way to an amazing adventure! I totally recommend everyone to try all the trails there. Each of them have their own special natural beauty and shouldn't be missed. Don't forget to bring some extra food as well! This walk will leave you both breathless and hungry! read more

Whirlpool State Park - Hiking Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

Nice view of the majestic waters of Niagara river. The wonders of God's creations. It has a nice view of the raging river that it makes a whirlpool. If you get a chance stop by a the whirlpool state park read more

Nature Beauty and Natural Beauty. Best place for the people who like to spend long hours just watching water flow. read more

Whirlpool State Park - Hiking Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

yeah, even a guy born and raised in New York City can appreciate the wild outdoors. from the top, you can see Niagara Falls, both the American and Canadian side. but, this was the fairly boring part of the journey. what can I say, I love Michael Bay movies, so I need constant action and stimulus to keep me alert. you start off by taking some pretty dangerous rock steps down to the bottom, and THEN your hike begins. one of my friends tried to count, something around 280 rock steps. some are at obscene angles, so I hope your balance is good. the hike is not that tough, but it isn't easy either. if you are horribly out of shape, this is not for you. if you are in average or better shape, do it. overall, not a long hike, took a bit more than 3 hours to go all the way and loop back, but the inclines and terrain add some difficulty. you will definitely sweat, but the views are goddamn EPIC and worth it. you'll see some crazy whirlpools (duh), and be within spitting distance of Canada. wave to the people on the boats. actually, make them wave their hands in the air like they don't care. there are plenty of spots for fishing. if you're feeling really brave, there's a steep incline dirt hill. you can get some great photos here - make sure to bring a camera. I'm Mike B and I approve this place. read more

The next time you are in upstate NY visiting the Falls don't forget about the Falls little brother Whirlpool. If you want to get away from the hustle a bustle that is the Falls and want a quieter change of place away from many of the tourists than this is the place to come and relax a bit and enjoy some very scenic views and just get away from the hustle and bustle than you you found a great location here for all of the above. read more

Enjoyed the views on all the gorge trail hikes! Counted 340 steps up from the whirlpool number 5 hike but well worth it on a gorgeous day. Would recommend hike #3 and 4 as they had the best views and a lot more scenic areas to view the rapids. Hikes #5 and 6 were nice but had a lot more shrubbery in the way blocking views of the rapids when you got to the lower gorge hikes. read more

This park has great views! So glad we went here. Hiked down to the river which was AWESOME! It is not a hike for the weak or out of shape! There is some rock/boulder climbing, so wear good shoes. Absolutely breathtaking views! Bucket list item checked off! read more

Overall a great place to hang out and exercise. The scenery is outstanding. I will post some pictures I took while I was here. I took a hike down to the bottom of the Niagara Gorge; be careful on some of the steps going down. I would recommend wearing hiking boots or sneakers with good grip on the bottom, and bringing lots of water to drink is a must for the hike back up the gorge. There are two stone picnic tables with stone chairs on the way down the gorge trails for picnicking. Overall very good exercise and scenery. The park has clean bathrooms and water fountains at the top of the gorge to refresh after a hike. This park is open until dusk. read more