Niagara Falls is one of the most famous and spectacular natural wonders in the world, located on the border between the United States (New York) and Canada (Ontario). It consists of three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls (the largest), American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Here’s a bit more about each:
1. Horseshoe Falls: The largest and most well-known of the three, Horseshoe Falls straddles the border between Canada and the U.S. It is shaped like a horseshoe, hence the name, and is approximately 2,600 feet wide. The majority of Horseshoe Falls lies in Canada.
2. American Falls: This waterfall lies entirely on the American side and is about 940 feet wide. The flow of water over American Falls is more rugged due to the presence of large boulders at its base.
3. Bridal Veil Falls: The smallest of the three falls, Bridal Veil Falls is located next to the American Falls and separated by Luna Island. Its delicate appearance is reminiscent of a bridal veil.
Key facts:
• Height: The falls drop around 167 feet (51 meters).
• Volume: About 85,000 cubic feet of water flow over the falls every second.
• Tourism: Both the Canadian and U.S. sides offer a range of activities, including boat tours like the famous “Maid of the Mist,” which takes visitors close to the falls, as well as walking trails and observation decks.
Nighttime Illumination:
At night, the falls are illuminated in vibrant colors, creating a beautiful spectacle.
Niagara Falls is not only a major tourist attraction but also a significant source of hydroelectric power for both countries.