Camping Companions

I don’t know about you, but we are always looking for budget friendly activities to do whenever we visit a new place. In fact, the whole reason we camp is it is a cheaper way to see the world than flying somewhere and then booking a hotel. So today we are going to share with you our favorite free thing to do near Niagara Falls, NY that are actually worth seeing. Just because there is a major tourist attraction nearby, doesn’t mean there aren’t fun things to do that won’t break the bank. This article is part of a series, so please check back to see other articles of free things to do near Niagara Falls.

Take an epic hike, enjoy a picnic, and view the stunning Niagara River. There are 2 State Parks that are side by side and free to enjoy that will allow you to do just that. Located North of Niagara Falls along the Niagara Scenic Parkway, are Devils Hole State Park, and Whirlpool State Park. Both parks overlook the Niagara River, which is the river that has begun its way to the mouth of Lake Ontario after it has gone over Niagara Falls. The water moves so swiftly, that it has carved out an area in the rock that creates a Whirlpool before it circles around and moves over the class 6 rapids downriver. The best part is that you can see all of this up close because there is a 2 mile loop hiking trail that runs between the 2 state parks. We prefer to enter at the Devil’s Hole end, descend the rugged 300 vertical feet of mostly stone stairs, and hike along the gorge to what is called “the flats”. The flats are just as the name suggests, a rock formation that has been eroded into a smooth area that you can sit and watch the water as it goes by. Or look across the river at Canada. There is a lot to take in as you are following this trail so have your camera handy. Once you’ve had enough though, there are those stairs that you have to climb back up. There is a second set of stairs in the Whirlpool State Park end which takes you back to the top to a trail that runs along the top of the gorge back to the parking lot where you started. The trail along the top is relatively level, tree lined, and is a great way for your heart to return to its normal rate. It’s great exercise and a stunning way to view the Niagara River. Wear good shoes and have plenty of water to drink on hand. We suggest you go in the morning when the temperature is cooler, and then enjoy a picnic lunch. Did you experience this hike? Leave a comment, what did you think?

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