Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls on the border between Canada and the United States, with the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side standing about 57 meters tall. Water from the Niagara River drops over the edge and forms a wide curve that can be seen from viewpoints on both banks.

The waterfalls formed at the end of the last ice age about 12,000 years ago, when melting ice flowed into the Niagara River. The rock eroded over the centuries, causing the falls to slowly move upstream.

The name comes from the word "Onguiaahra," which refers to the thundering waters local Indigenous groups described. Visitors today notice how the mist rises constantly from the basin below, creating rainbows that shift throughout the day.

The best view of the Canadian side is from the paths along the cliff edge, which remain open even when mist is heavy. Those who want to get close to the water should bring rain gear, as spray can be strong on the lower platforms.

Below the Horseshoe Falls are tunnels from the early 20th century that once diverted water for power plants. Visitors can now walk through these underground passages and hear the roar directly above their heads.

Location: Regional Municipality of Niagara

Inception: June 12, 1903

Elevation above the sea: 173 m

Shares border with: St. Catharines, Fort Erie, Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Thorold, Welland, Port Colborne

Website: https://niagarafalls.ca

GPS coordinates: 43.11667,-79.06667

Latest update: December 14, 2025 22:54