The Devils Hole to Whirlpool Loop Tour offers a rare opportunity to experience the Niagara River Gorge from both the river’s edge and its rim. This exclusive hike takes you down 410 stone steps into the heart of the gorge, where you’ll explore rugged trails and learn about the area’s rich history, including how the gorge was formed, Devils Hole, the Niagara Gorge Railroad and much more. Your New York State Licensed Hiking Guide will help you navigate narrow paths, rocks and roots while sharing fascinating stories about the gorge’s geology and wildlife. The tour culminates at the famous Whirlpool Rapids, where you can relax on Butterfly Rock and enjoy the views. The return climb up 400+ stone steps offers breathtaking views of Canada. After the hike we will return to the Devil's Hole parking lot. This personalized hiking adventure is perfect for families, freind groups and nature lovers. It will be a highlight of your vacation to Niagara Falls USA.
Meet your guide at the Devils Hole State Park. There is free parking at Devil's Hole park (no oversized RV parking). We will meet at the restroom building at the north end of the park.
Devil's Hole Park offers views of the Niagara River, New York Power Authority Dam and Lewiston/Queston Bridge to Canada. We will have a brief overview of the tour and a hiking safety discussion.
We will begin the hike by descending 400+ stone steps into the Niagara River Gorge. From there will head south on the path towards Devils Hole.
The hiking path is wide and flat at first and can get muddy if we had recent rain. The trail begins to narrow and gets rocky and slopes into the gorge. Your duide will give you tips of how to safely navigate this part of the trail. We will reach Devils Hole and discuss historical significance of the area.
We will contune hiking toward the Whirlpool and learn about the old Niagara River Gorge Railway. We will navigate through some large rocks, tree roots and see rock slides all while having views the the Niagara River. As we get closer to the Whilpool you'll see and hear the roar of the Class 5 rapids. We will stop at key spots of some photos and water breaks. stops for photos of the swirling aqua blue water.
We will reach Butterfly Rock Landing at the Whirlpool.
Enjoy some free time for independent exploration and to experience the powerful twists and churs of the rapids. You can also just sit and relax, enjoy blu-green aqua river water, watch and wave to the jet boats or the Aero Car above you.
Your guide will be happy to use your phone or camera to take photos of your group.
We will head back 1/2 mile to the Whirlpool stone staircase and hike 400+ step stone to the rim of the gorge. This is the most challenging part of the hike, but we will stop as many times as needed to rest and take water breaks.
When the entire group reaches to the top of the stairs, we will hike 1/2 mile along the upper rim of the gorge to the Whirlpool overlook. There you will be able to see the Buttlerfly rock below and the areas we explored.
Our last stop will be for a bathroom break at the small Whirlpool park visitors center. From there there will be two options to return to the Devil's Hole Parking lot starting point:
Option 1: Your guide will wait with the group and take the free shuttle bus back to our starting point at Devils hole. This will save you time and enegry, especailly for people who are tired or looking to save time.
Option 2: You will hike along the upper rim gorge trail back to Devil's Hole parking lot one your own without the guide. This one mile hike is on a wide dirt path and will add 30-45 minutes to the tour.
We will meet next to the restroom at Devil's Hole Park, a stone building covered in ivy at the north end of the park. You will see views of the Niagara Power Dam.
You will be required to show your tour guide proof of the number of hiking tour tickets purchased.
Niagara Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder and a major tourist destination known for its powerful waterfalls and scenic beauty. Located on the border between the United States and Canada, it offers a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and family-friendly entertainment.
The oldest state park in the U.S., offering stunning views of the falls and various activities.
A state-of-the-art theater offering a 30-minute film about the history and beauty of Niagara Falls.
A small but engaging aquarium featuring marine life and educational exhibits.
A sandwich featuring roast beef on a kummelweck roll, topped with horseradish and spices.
A sweet dessert wine made from grapes frozen on the vine.
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, lush greenery, and all attractions fully operational. Ideal for outdoor activities and boat tours.
US Dollar (USD)
Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (GMT-4 during daylight saving time)
120VV, 60HzHz
Niagara Falls is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Niagara Falls Amtrak Station
Greyhound Bus Station
Affordable and convenient for getting around the city.
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
A vibrant city with museums, parks, and a rich history.
A charming town with historic sites, wineries, and scenic beauty.
Price varies by option