Devil's Hole to Whirlpool Adventure Hike - Niagara Falls, USA
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Devil's Hole to Whirlpool Adventure Hike - Niagara Falls, USA

Active
(2 reviews)
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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.

Available options

Devil's Hole to Whirlpool Adventure Hike - Niagara Falls, USA

What's included

Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Professional English Speaking Tour guide

Detailed itinerary

1

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.

2
Stop 2

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.

3
Stop 3

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.

4
Stop 4

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.

5
Stop 5

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.

6
Stop 6

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.

7
Stop 7

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.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Max 2 dogs per tour allowed for $12 per dog with 25-100lbs
Must be able walk up and down 400+ uneven stone steps

Meeting point

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.

Important notes

You will be required to show your tour guide proof of the number of hiking tour tickets purchased.

About Niagara Falls

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.

Top Attractions

Niagara Falls State Park

The oldest state park in the U.S., offering stunning views of the falls and various activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to enter the park; attractions have individual fees

Niagara Adventure Theater

A state-of-the-art theater offering a 30-minute film about the history and beauty of Niagara Falls.

Entertainment 30 minutes Moderate

Aquarium of Niagara

A small but engaging aquarium featuring marine life and educational exhibits.

Attraction 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beef on Weck

A sandwich featuring roast beef on a kummelweck roll, topped with horseradish and spices.

Lunch Contains gluten and meat

Niagara Ice Wine

A sweet dessert wine made from grapes frozen on the vine.

Dessert/Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Maid of the Mist boat tour Cave of the Winds Jet Boat Tours Winery tours Spa visits Scenic walks Niagara Falls State Park Aquarium of Niagara

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, lush greenery, and all attractions fully operational. Ideal for outdoor activities and boat tours.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish, French
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (GMT-4 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Niagara Falls is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure.
  • • Be cautious of scams.
  • • Stay in well-lit areas at night.

Getting there

By air
  • Buffalo Niagara International Airport • 40 miles (64 km)
  • Niagara Falls International Airport • 7 miles (11 km)
By train

Niagara Falls Amtrak Station

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Niagara Falls Old Fort Niagara

Day trips

Buffalo, NY
25 miles (40 km) • Half day to full day

A vibrant city with museums, parks, and a rich history.

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
15 miles (24 km) • Full day

A charming town with historic sites, wineries, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights • Late November to late February Niagara Falls International Film Festival • September

Pro tips

  • Visit the falls early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
  • Bring a waterproof poncho for boat tours.
  • Check for package deals that include attractions and accommodations.
  • Explore the nearby wineries for a unique experience.
  • Use public transport or walk to save money and reduce environmental impact.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-80
1
Childs
Age 8-17
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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