Linda M.

One of the many parks near Niagara Falls and along the Niagara River. There are so many great places to either explore or just stand and admire the beauty and power of the water. Whirlpool Park shows you the power of the Falls. Obviously when you're next to the falls you can witness that but here down the river you can see how powerful it still is. You have the option of staying along the top rim along a very comfortable path or going down right along the river. Just pay attention to the signs! The trail is easy but the water can be dangerous. There are several other options for admiring this beauty. If you want something a little more challenging you can go down the road about a mile to Devil's Hope State Park. 2021-129

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.

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.

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.

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

Julie L.

I found this place by chance as I was scrolling through instagram and thought I'd write a review to post things I thought were good to know. Also, look at the pictures of this place on instagram, they're all really pretty and make you want to go hiking. Currently, the trail down to the water is closed for maintenance. So if you want to walk down to see the river, you have to use the trail/steps by Devil's hole state park. Aside from the maintenance, the main area to see the whirlpools is still open. There are a few good viewing spots where you can really see how powerful the whirlpools/water is. Fairly well maintained trails here. There's a good trail that I took that led us all the way to Devil's hole state park. Although, since there's construction going on right now, for part of the way you have to walk on the street. But there aren't any cars, it's a fairly flat walk, and about 1.5 miles. Parking is easy. There's a giant lot that's mostly empty. There are bathrooms. But they close at 3:30 pm. Park is open from dawn until dusk.