Did You Know – 7 Fascinating Facts About Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the most fascinating places in North America. Here are 7 interesting facts about Niagara Falls. Do you know the answers to these questions? No peeking!
- Is Niagara Falls public or private lands?
- Is the water fresh or salty?
- How many people visit a year?
- Between which bodies of water does the river run?
- How often are the decks replaced?
- Can the water flow be stopped?
- How much hydroelectric power is produced by the falls?
Located on the border of New York state and Ontario, Canada, Niagara Falls consists of three falls: the American Falls, the Horseshoe Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. Niagara Falls is located in over 400 acres of landscape and wildlife. Between the foot traffic of 30 million people and the constant presence of water in some form, the decks must be torn down and rebuilt each year. Although it’s illegal to go over the falls, people still do it. In 2012, Nik Wallenda found a different way “over the falls” crossing by tightrope (and permission from both sides).
Did You Know – Niagara Falls Answers:
- Niagara Falls, the oldest state park in the U.S., was formed in 1885. The park is open 365/24 each year for the public’s enjoyment. French explorer Father Louis Hennepin discovered the falls and Frederick Law Olmstead designed the park.
- The water going over Niagara Falls represents 20% of the world’s freshest water
- Eight million people visit yearly to gaze at the mighty waters of Niagara Falls
- Niagara River drains water from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario.
- Decks are torn down and rebuilt every year
- Flow was stopped for several months in 1969…”to determine feasibility of removing the large amount of loose rock from the base of the falls to enhance its appearance. In the end the final decision was that the expense would be too great.”
- Niagara Falls once was the largest hydropower facility in the Western World. Now, it produces around 2.4 gigawatts of electricity for New York state. Several hydropower plants around the falls produce electricity for both America and Canada.
Photo Credit: Harry Ouffut
I want to know more about Niagara Falls!
If you have a smart device, one way to enhance your traveling experience is to know more about the area you’re visiting. Phone or iPad “Apps” are a great way to do this. When you get connected with the Discover Niagara app, you can “experience Niagara’s iconic landscape, rich history, and thriving culture. Travel deeper and create your own authentic experience by discovering a destination deserving of days of discovery.”
Get the Discover Niagara app here: http://www.discoverniagara.org/apps/
“The free, mobile app shares the history and culture that shaped Niagara Falls and connects visitors to the landscape and places that tell those stories. An interactive wayfinding map will help get you there.”
Click here for more information about Niagara Falls: http://www.discoverniagara.org/explore/plan-your-trip/city-of-niagara-falls/niagara-falls-state-park/