‘Journey Behind the Falls’ is an experience that allows visitors to explore Niagara Falls from beneath and behind, offering a different kind of intimacy with this natural wonder.
This attraction on the Canadian side involves descending 125 feet through tunnels originally built in 1889, leading to observation platforms and portals that open directly behind the Horseshoe Falls. Here, visitors can stand just feet away from where 600,000 gallons of water per second tumble over the edge.
The sensory experience is profound; you feel the vibration of the water through the rock, hear the thunderous sound amplified, and see the falls from an angle few get to witness. The mist, thick and constant, provides a natural cooling spray, adding to the sensory immersion.
The journey includes an outdoor observation deck partway down, where you can view the falls from below, seeing the curvature of Horseshoe Falls from a new perspective. This deck also offers a panoramic view of the entire Niagara Falls landscape, including the American Falls in the distance.
Inside, the tunnels are historical, with exhibits explaining their construction and the geological story of the falls. The walk through these tunnels adds an element of history and engineering marvel to the natural beauty above.
This experience is especially poignant in winter when the falls might partially freeze, creating icicles and ice formations that alter the visual spectacle, making each visit unique.
Going behind the falls is not just about the view; it’s about connecting with the elemental force of water in a way that is both humbling and exhilarating. It’s a reminder of our smallness in the face of nature’s grandeur.