Cave of the Winds is a must-visit tourist attraction of Niagara Falls. It was discovered in 1834 and was a natural cave earlier. Slowly, the guided tours were initiated in 1841 which took the tourists through Goat Island. Today, it is a modern attraction which is attended by thousands of visitors. There is an elevator that takes you 175 ft deep within Niagara Gorge. There, you have to wear a yellow poncho and the footwear provided by the guide. Then you will cross the wooden walkways and reach the renowned hurricane deck. It is a truly admirable sight and makes the perfect backdrop for pictures.
As you stand near the base of the Cave of the Winds, you will hear the gushing sound of water flowing through the rocks and making their way to the sea. Remember that the hurricane deck is removed every fall to prevent any ice-related damage. It is rebuilt in spring for you to experience.
Highlights
• Come closer to Niagara Falls and feel the water droplets gushing across your face as the Cave of the Winds takes you through a blissful experience.
• Slip into a yellow poncho and special footwear provided here and take the guided tour through the wooden walkways to reach the Hurricane Deck.
• Visit early in the morning or around dusk to witness a gorgeous rainbow looming over you while the cool mist sprays on your face.
• Ride the elevator that takes you 175 ft underwater and into the Niagara Gorge from where you will walk through the walkways and reach the deck.
• Plan your visit thoughtfully to ensure that the hurricane deck and catwalk are open as they are closed in the fall and reopened in the spring.
How To Reach
By Car: Buffalo City Centre is approximately 34 km from the Cave of the Winds. You will reach the destination via car in 30 minutes.
By Train: Board the Amtrak Empire Service train from Buffalo and reach Niagara Falls Station. You can take a cab to reach the destination.
By Metro: Board the NFTA Metro from Buffalo to Niagara Falls. Take the Discover Niagara Shuttle as it gives free rides to the destination.
Best Time To Visit
The hurricane deck is open in the spring season for public visits. Visit the hurricane deck between June and August as the weather is pleasant and warm. Visit on the weekdays as the crowd is typically smaller than on the weekends. Visit early in the morning or in the afternoon to ditch the crowd and get the best experience of the deck.
Other Essential Information
- Although a poncho and special footwear are provided at the place, it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and quick-drying clothes.
- Use waterproof bags or cases for your electronics and valuables.
- Visit in the morning to avoid long lines and crowds and get a more peaceful experience.
- Check the weather forecast and confirm with the officials before visiting as the place is closed during severe climatic conditions.
- The walkways can be slippery from the mist, so make sure to use the handrails.
- Bring waterproof phones and cameras to capture the scenic moments of Niagara Falls.
Experience the beauty of nature at Hurricane Deck
This is the main attraction of the Cave of the Winds. Visitors from across the world come to experience the thundering Bridal Veil Falls. Within a few steps away, you will experience the full-blown mist and wind effect created by the water. This sensation is completely exhilarating and provides a unique perspective on natural beauty. You will get a bright yellow poncho and special footwear to stay dry.
Explore the World Changed Here Pavilion
You can visit the pavilion before or after your tour of the hurricane deck. It is located within the premises of Cave of the Winds and has an interactive exhibit. There is a detailed history of Niagara Falls and its cultural significance. You will get to learn about the story of those daredevils who crossed the waters in nothing but a barrel of a lifejacket. Information on the efforts put to harness the power and generate electricity is also offered. There are multimedia presentations, educational displays, and artefacts for the same.
Soak in the views from Observation Decks
Right beside the hurricane deck is the observation space. It is where you get a mesmerising view of Bridal Veil and American Falls. The deck also acts as an amazing background for your photographs. You also get a chance to appreciate the beauty of nature in its full form. Unlike the hurricane deck, an observational deck is not windy or wet. It is a safe spot to enjoy the scenery for as long as you want.
