Journey Behind the Falls Travel Guide

Journey Behind the Falls offers an unparalleled sensory experience, bringing you closer to the majestic Niagara Falls than you ever thought possible. Descend 125 feet via elevator into the Niagara Gorge, where a network of tunnels, some over 130 years old, awaits. These tunnels lead to two outdoor observation decks and two portals carved directly behind the cascading waters of the Horseshoe Falls.Originally known as the "Scenic Tunnels," the attraction dates back to 1832, when the first staircase was constructed to allow visitors access to the area behind the falls. Over the years, tunnels were expanded and enhanced, including the construction of a 150-foot tunnel in 1889 to showcase the full force and volume of the Horseshoe Falls. In 1951, a lower observation platform was added to provide an open-air experience. The name was officially changed to Journey Behind the Falls in 1994.Today, as you explore the tunnels, you'll experience the awesome spectacle of one-fifth of the world's fresh water crashing down to the basin below. During summer daylight hours, over 2,800 cubic meters of water thunder over the brink every second, traveling at 65 kilometers per hour. The observation decks at the foot of the Falls provide unobstructed views, allowing you to witness the power and beauty of Niagara. Be prepared to get wet, as the mist from the falls is ever-present. During the spring and summer months, a complimentary biodegradable rain poncho is provided.The attraction also showcases the history of Niagara Falls, from its geological formation to its rise as a global tourism destination. Exhibits in the queuing area feature images from Niagara Parks' archival photo library and a reproduction of an oil canvas painting by Indigenous artist Oren Lyons, entitled Maid of the Mist and the Thunder Beings.