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    Whirlpool State Park

    4.5 (43 reviews)

    Whirlpool State Park Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Whirlpool State Park

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    Nikkeya N.

    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.

    Sam E.

    ~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.

    whirlpool rapids bridge in a distance
    Joyce T.

    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.

    Large smooth stone, great place to rest by the whirlpool
    Aly W.

    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.

    Kyle R.

    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.

    Mark M.

    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!

    Joy N.

    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.

    Stunning view
    Anna W.

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

    Michael P.

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

    Rushing water

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

    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.

    Map of nearby trails and sights

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    Ask the Community - Whirlpool State Park

    Review Highlights - Whirlpool State Park

    There is a trail that will lead you down to the Niagara river and towards the area called Devil's Hole.

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    White Water Walk

    White Water Walk

    4.0(89 reviews)
    0.6 mi

    They are on a online system time slot booking system. Walkins welcome too but be prepared to wait…read morein long lines. An elevator takes you down 70m go the base of the Niagara Gorge and onto a beatiful, well maintained boardwalk trail. FYI, It is not a long trail. This trail takes you right up close along the Niagara Rapids. Unique view compared to the typical Nigara Falls. You walk back the same way you came to get back to that elevator which leads you back to the entrance/gift shop. Washrooms located accross the street. Option for a shuttle that goes to and from Clifton Hill area (about a 10min drive) from the central Niagara attractions.

    The White Water Walk was a really nice attraction and a great way to experience the power and…read morebeauty of Niagara Falls up close. Visitors are able to go down near the water and walk along a parallel boardwalk, which gives you an amazing view of the rushing whitewater. This attraction is also an excellent opportunity for photography. I was able to take a lot of beautiful photos, and the scenery made it easy to capture some memorable shots. The sound, movement, and force of the water made the experience feel peaceful and exciting at the same time. I also appreciated that it was self-guided and easy to navigate. You can move at your own pace, stop for pictures, and really take in the view without feeling rushed. Overall, I really enjoyed the White Water Walk. It is a simple but beautiful attraction, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Niagara Falls, especially if you enjoy nature, scenic views, and photography.

    Photos
    White Water Walk
    White Water Walk
    White Water Walk

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    Letchworth State Park - Genesee Arch Bridge over Upper Falls.

    Letchworth State Park

    4.8(220 reviews)
    64.1 mi

    I visited here recently and even though the main waterfall was closed due to falling rocks, it was…read morestill 100% worth the trip. We were able to see the medium and smaller waterfalls and I was blown away by how beautiful it was. There are incredible views everywhere you turn with tons of photo spots and scenic overlooks. The trails are really well maintained and were a good easy hike. I also love how much there is to do here beyond just hiking. There are biking trails, horseback riding, and even skiing in the winter. It feels like a park you could come back to in every season and have a completely different experience. There is also a welcome center with a small gift shop and a nature center. You could easily spend a whole day here. I loved it!

    If you haven't been to Letchworth State, fix that. It feels like it's out in the middle of nowhere,…read morebut it is worth the drive no matter where you are coming from. This park is great in every season, and we are lucky to have it here. Most people show up for the waterfalls and the views of the gorge. They deserve the hype. The scenery alone is worth the price of admission and a solid chunk of your day. If you stop there, you are missing out. Dig deeper. Come in the winter and see the ice volcano. It feels like something too cool for WNY. Stop by during the hot air balloon festival in the summer and watch the sky fill with color over the gorge. Get off the rim trail and explore the trails that go through the woods. Make time for the less populated side of the park. Fewer people, more natural trails, and no admission fee. It has a completely different vibe and is perfect if you want something a little more peaceful.

    Photos
    Letchworth State Park
    Letchworth State Park
    Letchworth State Park

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    Eternal Flame Falls - Ravine, near to falls, along frozen creek.

    Eternal Flame Falls

    4.7(65 reviews)
    33.0 mi

    Coming in the winter, did NOT know what to expect. Ok we came In mid March but it has still been…read morereally cold and snowy. I came with my son, and my parents in their 60s. They are able bodied but not fit so I had no idea what to expect. I feel like a lot of the reviews I could find through Yelp, Facebook, Reddit and all trails were very mixed. A lot of people saying it's easy, my kids can do it, current conditions are not very icy, you don't need spikes, etc. and then a lot of it's a moderate hike, if you can't easily walk up 100 stairs you should not do it, very slippery, wear spikes, etc. We all survived. Some of us slipped a little on the icy areas, one fell a few times but no injuries. There are a lot of railings and tree bark to hold onto near the icy or technical areas. I would recommend spikes if it's icy to get a better grip. My son and I are probably beginner to intermediate hikers. For us this was a moderate hike. For an avid hiker this would be an easy hike. Strictly talking in icy, wet, snowy conditions. During dry weather I assume it's much easier. Still very doable if you are not super active as my parents are not. It was a really cool sight at the end and very beautiful scenery with all the snow. We actually had a great time and I was really worried about not being prepared enough and someone getting hurt which wasn't the case thankfully

    Really enjoyed this trail! I'm not an avid hiker and this was easy enough for me. The trail is…read morestraight down and back and very easy to follow. There is plenty of parking and the signage was clear and easy to see. I went on a hot summer day and the creek bed was very dry so that also made it easy to hike. On days when it's more wet I'm sure it would be slippery so be sure to wear the correct gear.

    Photos
    Eternal Flame Falls - Flame from distance.

    Flame from distance.

    Eternal Flame Falls
    Eternal Flame Falls

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    Whirlpool State Park - hiking - Updated May 2026

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