BUS 449 Post 4: Niagara Falls

The Niagara Falls is a destination unlike any other. Located on the border between Ontario, Canada and New York of the United States, the incredible waterfall attracts many visitors every day.

View of the Horseshoe Falls as seen from Ontario.

The word "Niagara" is derived from the Iroquois Indian word "Onguiaahra" meaning "the strait." The three distinctive falls of this natural wonder are called the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.  The highest drop is about 176 feet (53.6 meters) high, but due to rocks at the base, the actual fall is 70 feet (21.3 meters). The Bridal Veil Falls is named for its appearance. It is located next to the American falls, separated by a small piece of land called Luna Island. What’s interesting is that almost 1/3 of the Canadian Falls lies within US Territory and Terrapin Point is in Canada.

When I was twelve or thirteen-years old, some friends, my parents and I visited the Niagara Falls. We toured the Canadian side of the Falls, meaning that we were looking at the falling water from across. The view was breathtaking! I am not sure whether the waterfall is considered one of the seven wonders of the world, but to me it undoubtedly is.

The most memorable moment of our visit was when we hopped on the "Maid of the Mist Boat” and enjoyed a ride from the docks past the base of the American Falls, then into the basin of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Everyone on the boat was wearing raincoats because water was sprinkling everywhere. The closer we got to the Falls, the louder the roar of the water was. Being on a boat and seeing the falling water from below made me realize how extremely high the Falls really are. It was so exciting - a half hour thrill of a lifetime!

Photo by: Mahmoud Saati

Another amazing part of our adventure was when we went deep below and behind the heart of Niagara. An attraction called the “Journey Behind the Falls,” took us through tunnels as we stood in the mist where the magnificent Horseshoe Falls tumbles. It was quite a wonderful journey indeed! I wish I could relive the moment... I definitely recommend the Niagara Falls as a destination to all of you! No, seriously, it's a great place to visit with the whole family! :)

Sources: http://www.niagarafallstourism.com/http://www.niagarafallslive.com/facts_about_niagara_falls.htmPhotos: http://www.niagarafallstourism.com/image-gallery/

The waterfall is spotlighted with bright colors in the evenings.
Photo by: Volkov Mikhail

Photo by: Adam McInnis

Niagara Falls Skyline in the winter.Photo by: Joe Lewis