A Must-Do in a Lifetime: 12 Classic Ways to Experience Niagara Falls

Text by Chen Guanxin, MOOK Travel Life Network, compiled and reported Source / Moleskine Editorial Department

Straddling the U.S.-Canada border, Niagara Falls is divided into the "Horseshoe Falls" and the "American Falls" by Goat Island. Seven hundred years ago, these two waterfalls were originally connected, but they split apart due to changes in the terrain. The Horseshoe Falls, which is larger, belongs to Canada, while the smaller American Falls and Goat Island are on U.S. soil. Water from Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes, flows abundantly at a rate of 75,000 cubic meters per second into Lake Ontario. The strong erosive force has made Niagara Falls the fastest-moving waterfall in the world. Every year, more than ten million tourists from around the globe come to witness the falls' grandeur, and the various entertainment facilities developed around the falls have also made this place a true tourist destination.

1. Horseshoe Falls

Belonging to Canada, the Horseshoe Falls spans 792 meters in width and accounts for about 90% of the total flow of Niagara Falls, making it the first image that comes to mind when people think of the falls. The mighty waters from the upper reaches of the Niagara River, roaring like a stampede, suddenly plunge 53 meters down here, creating a misty curtain that almost hides the falls.

The best viewing angle for the Horseshoe Falls is from the Table Rock platform on the Canadian side. In fact, Table Rock has become a historical term, as the real Table Rock has gradually shrunk over the years due to the continuous recession of the falls. Later, for safety reasons, it was removed in 1935. Today, the site of the former Table Rock has been developed into an observation walkway, with a visitor center built nearby. Whether during the day or at night, tourists from all over the world leave their figures here with the falls in the background.

2. Maid of the Mist

Since its maiden voyage in 1846, the Maid of the Mist has always been the most famous way to enjoy Niagara Falls. Put on a thin blue raincoat, board the white double-decker boat, and the most thrilling waterfall adventure begins. The Maid of the Mist, which looks historic yet sturdy, bravely sails from the riverbank toward the falls and circles into the Horseshoe Falls. The abundant waters rush toward visitors like a galloping herd, and in an instant, strangers on the boat seem to become fellow travelers in a shared experience. Amidst the swirling mist, visitors can personally feel the power and might of the falls.