Niagara Falls History and Facts
Niagara Falls is a sublime world-class attraction located on the border between the state of New York in the United States and the Ontario province in Canada. There are actually 3 waterfalls: Bridal Veil Falls, the American Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls. The American side comprises the Bridal Veil Falls and, of course, the American Waterfalls. The Canadian side includes the Horseshoe Falls. The smallest waterfall is the Bridal Veil Falls and it’s separated by Luna Island from the other 2.
The Niagara Falls is known for having the world’s highest flow rate. The vertical drop reaches over 50 meters (165 feet). Also, it is said that the Horseshoe Falls is North America’s most powerful waterfall. These three falls are formed on the river Niagara and they gave the name of the twin cities located on the border: Niagara Falls in the New York state and Niagara Falls in the province Ontario.
These famous falls aren’t that high, still they impress through their width. They were formed during the Last Ice Age, when the Wisconsin glaciations were finished. The glaciers receded and formed the Great Lakes, whose water reached the Atlantic Ocean via the Niagara Escarpment. Ever since the Niagara Falls has been transformed into a worldwide attraction, it has become famous for its beauty. Also, it’s known to produce hydroelectric power and to maintain a balance between industrial, commercial and recreational.
No one knows exactly what the origins of the falls’ name are. George Stewart claims that it’s related to Ongniaahra, an old Iroquois town. The name means land divided in 2. On the other hand, Bruce Trigger, an Iroquoian scholar, said that the name comes from the Niagagarega people, the natives of the Neutral Confederacy. The Niagara Falls has been seen by numerous travelers and naturalists ever since the 17th century. It became a tourist attraction in the 18th century and over the years the officials have improved the infrastructure and have built various bridges so as to ease access. Nowadays, people come from all around the world by automobile, train and plane to admire the stunning Niagara Falls.
The main attractions, besides the falls themselves, are the Cave of the Winds and the Maid of the Mist. The first one is a point located beneath the Bridal Veil Falls, which offers a unique and scenic experience. The visitors will go to Hurricane Deck and actually feel the roaring waters. The Maid of the Mist is a famous boat cruise that carries tourists close to the falls, into the rapids. Visiting the Niagara Falls can be a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience shimmering rainbows, delicate mists, thundering roars and spectacular views, all together.
Another attraction is the Niagara Falls State Park. This natural and wonderful park features various developments and distractions and has an original splendor. Moreover, there are numerous facilities that allow tourists to enjoy this world wonder including towers, observation decks and helicopter rides. So, the splendid and unique Niagara Falls should be on everyone’s must see list.
For more information call Colleen Kulikowski
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