How to Plan a Trip to Niagara Falls

How to Plan a Trip to Niagara Falls
Niagra Falls sits on the border between Canada and the United States, just outside of Buffalo, New York. This is a tourist destination for avid outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and vacationers from all across the globe. Whether you just want to relax on a boat tour, or hike the winding trails that skirt the perimeter of this amazing waterfall, properly planning your Niagra Falls trip will greatly enhance your experience. Guided tours are available from numerous outfitters and tour guides, or you can experience the wonder of the falls on your own, provided you have the appropriate instructions on where to go, and how to get there.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1
Contact the park headquarters well in advance to obtain tourist information regarding peak seasons, lodging or camping, and expenses. The rates for camping and tours fluctuate seasonally, with spring and summer being the most expensive. Cabins, and campgrounds fill up rather quickly, especially on major holiday weekends. Consider planning your trip around moderate times of occupancy, such as early spring, or fall to ensure that you won't have to battle the crowds.
Step 2
Obtain detailed park maps that show you the hiking trails and campgrounds nearby the park. These maps are available through the park service website, and many can be downloaded and printed out for easy convenience. Campgrounds such as Four Mile, in Four Mile State Park, fill up rather quickly as this particular campground is located near the falls and sits adjacent to Lake Ontario. Trails within the park typically cost a $1 or $2 fee, with four main trails within the park that meander right up to the edge of the falls in many places. On the Canadian side of the falls, the Niagra River Recreation Trail winds through about 35 miles of the areas most picturesque countryside, and is well worth crossing the border to experience.
Step 3
Book your trip well in advance to take advantage of package deals and low rates. The beginning, and further into peak season, the higher the rates will be.

Tips & Warnings

 
Ensure extreme caution when hiking on trails around the edge of the falls. The rocks are extremely slippery and one wrong move could send you into a torrent of water.
 
Ensure extreme caution when hiking on trails around the edge of the falls. The rocks are extremely slippery and one wrong move could send you into a torrent of water.

Article Written By Jeremiah Blanchard

Jeremiah Blanchard has been writing professionally since 2006, specializing in nature, environment, conservation and travel. His work has appeared in activist columns on Socyberty.com and Authspot.com. Blanchard has studied photography at William Carey College and has a Bachelor of Arts in history from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Write for Trails.com
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