Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. This magnificent waterfall is nature’s creation and not man-made.
It is a group of 3 waterfalls on the Niagara River, which flows from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. The Niagara River runs between southern Ontario in Canada and western part of New York State in USA.
The formation of Niagara Falls was a slow process that continues to this day. Every year, the Falls keep receding further upstream.
How Old is Niagara Falls?
Compared to other waterfalls existing elsewhere in the world, Niagara Falls is relatively young. While some waterfalls like Victoria Falls are over 3 million years old, Niagara Falls is believed to be around 12,000 years old.
Niagara Falls started forming when the last Ice Age ended some 12,000 years ago.
The Formation of Niagara Falls
The entire Niagara region was covered with glaciers during the Ice Age. As the glaciers melted and retreated, they eroded the soil underneath.
The retreating ice sheets carved basins into the land which filled with water, thus forming the Great Lakes. Excess water from the Great Lakes found a path through the Niagara Escarpment, forming the Niagara River and Niagara Falls.
So, glacial activity and erosion created the spectacular Niagara Falls, a natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors every year.
Niagara Falls Over The Years
Erosion over centuries is responsible for the current location of Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls was located between present-day Lewiston, New York and Queenston, Ontario around 11,000 years ago. Due to erosion, it has moved upstream a distance of 11.4 km in the last 12,000 years.
The rate of erosion has reduced in recent years due to several reasons. Diversion of water to hydroelectric power plants, repairs and other remedial measures have slowed down the rate of erosion somewhat.
Best Time to See Niagara Falls The Natural Wonder
June to August (summer in Niagara Falls) is the best time to see Niagara Falls. The weather is warm and all attractions like boat rides are open.
Viewing Niagara Falls, a natural wonder, is completely free whether you view it from the Canadian side or the US side.
Fully guided Niagara tours are available throughout the year. Booking can be done online or through the hotel where you plan to stay. Tours and hotel accommodations should be booked well in advance during peak tourist season, which is June to August.
Niagara Falls is natural and not man-made. Toronto is the biggest city close to Niagara Falls on the Canadian side.
Day trips from Toronto to Niagara Falls are popular.
Visit this spectacular natural beauty and explore the surrounding region which is famous for vineyards, wineries, Welland Canal, and Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Toronto To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Toronto To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Oakville To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Mississauga To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Oakville To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
