Descend down a cliff, and then venture through tunnels to see directly behind Horseshoe Falls.
Journey Behind the Falls is an exhilarating adventure that does just that: takes you behind awe-inspiring Horseshoe Falls. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at this natural beauty from observation decks near the base of the falls.
Your journey begins with a descent of 150 feet (46 meters) literally through a bedrock cliff. Hear the roar of 100,000 cubic feet (2,800 cubic meters) per second of water crashing down into the Niagara Gorge as soon as you step from the elevator. Put on the souvenir poncho before proceeding, unless you’re game for getting totally soaked.
The elevator delivers you to a series of tunnels leading to viewing portals directly behind the cascading water. Venture out onto the large platform on the west side of Horseshoe Falls — don’t worry, barricades ensure your safety. Beware, however, that if the wind is blowing across the falls toward you, the poncho will do little good to keep you dry. The experience is exhilarating nevertheless. (In winter, waterproof outerwear is essential.)
The tour is unguided so you can linger as long as you like, but be sure to allow at least 30 minutes so so.
The exact volume of water pouring over the falls depends on the level of Lake Erie, 22 miles (35 kilometers) to the south. Lake Erie rushes north toward Lake Ontario, and then northeast out the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Atlantic. In spring the amount of water going over the falls can double due to melting snow.
The Journey Behind the Falls is accessible from Niagara Parks’ Table Rock Welcome Center, which also houses shops and restaurants. This attraction is open daily, year-round, although the observation platform closes on icy winter periods. The Table Rock Welcome Center is a mile (1.6 kilometers) south of Rainbow Bridge on the Niagara Parkway. Parking is available across from the Welcome Center for a fee.