Cave of the Winds

Experience the raw power of nature at the Cave of the Winds attraction located in Niagara Falls, New York. An adrenaline-fueled descent via elevator takes you to the base of the American Falls, where you'll be wonderstruck by the stunning beauty of Bridal Veil Falls.

 

Decked out in a bright yellow poncho, you'll venture across sturdy redwood decks and platforms for an up-close view of the thundering cascade of water.

 

It's important to note that this experience is available only during the spring and summer months. The decking is ingeniously wedged into rock crevices, providing stability without the use of bolts or other construction materials.

 

During the fall, the decking is removed to prevent damage from ice buildup at the falls. For an unforgettable and exclusive encounter with the forces of nature, join our Cave of the Winds tour. Get ready to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls privately!

What to Know

Discover the thrilling Cave of the Winds attraction, situated on the American side of Niagara Falls. After a "mild to wild" ride on an elevator, visitors are transported to a series of wooden walkways near the base of the Falls.

 

Though once a natural cave behind the Bridal Veil Falls, the Cave of the Winds attraction now offers guests an up-close and personal view of the power of the Falls on the "Hurricane Deck."

 

Although walking is a part of the Cave of the Winds experience, resting points and a ramp for mobility-impaired visitors are available. For those who prefer to bypass the stairs, "The Bypass" area provides most of the experience without the need for climbing.

 

So, pack your bags and witness the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Niagara Falls at the Cave of the Winds attraction!

 

How to Get There

Located on Goat Island within Niagara Falls State Park, this stunning tourist attraction sits at 24 Buffalo Ave. Getting here is easy with the Niagara Falls Scenic Trolley, allowing you to leave your car behind.

 

Alternatively, skip the hassle of navigating the city and treat yourself to a Best of Niagara Falls USA Tour. You'll enjoy VIP treatment, being picked up in a luxury Mercedes Metris from your hotel and driven around to explore the top attractions, including Whirlpool State Park, Goat Island, Maid of the Mist, and more.

 

Best Time to Visit

If you're planning a visit to the Cave of the Winds, it's important to time it just right to ensure you can enjoy all the attractions. The attraction is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:15 pm, but the famous catwalk and hurricane deck are only available during a specific season.

 

To protect the decking from damage caused by ice buildup, it's removed each fall and reinstalled in the springtime, typically during the last week of May. Be sure to schedule your visit accordingly, so you can experience Niagara Falls in all its splendor during the prime time to visit the Cave of the Winds!

 

Features

Visit Niagara Falls, New York, and venture into the ultimate adventure at Cave of the Winds, where you'll get a unique opportunity to witness the sheer power of Niagara Falls up close! Your journey will commence with an exciting elevator ride that plummets 175 feet (53 meters) into the Niagara Gorge, setting the stage for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

 

Next, you'll be equipped with a yellow poncho and suitable footwear to tread along wooden walkways with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. 

 

This will take you to the incredible "Hurricane Deck," where you can stand just 20 feet (6 meters) away from the extraordinary cascades of Bridal Veil Falls. Whether it's day or night, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, with rainbows providing an extra touch of magic.

 

And thanks to the specially designed deck, everyone, regardless of mobility or age, can experience the breathtaking beauty of Niagara Falls. So, don't miss out on the chance to witness one of the most magnificent natural wonders up close and personal at Cave of the Winds!

 

History

Aeolus's Cave, or what is now known as the Cave of the Winds, can be found behind the Bridal Veil Falls at Niagara Falls. The cave was first discovered in 1834, standing at an impressive 130 feet (40 m) high, 100 feet (30 m) wide, and 30 feet (9 m) deep. It got its name from the Greek god of winds, Aeolus. Guided tours of this attraction first began in 1841, taking intrepid visitors down a staircase for a one-of-a-kind experience closer to the mighty Niagara Falls.

 

Though the cave tours were halted in 1920 due to a rock fall, the cave was reopened in 1924 with even more thrilling ways to explore this natural wonder. Unfortunately, a massive rockfall in 1954 destroyed the Cave of the Winds, and an overhang was blasted for safety reasons.

 

Fast forward to today, these setbacks and unfortunate circumstances still can't strip away the tourism potential of the attraction. Currently, this site provides an opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring beauty and power of Niagara Falls. Guests now ride an elevator 175 feet deep into the Niagara Gorge to traverse a series of walkways and approach the front of Bridal Veil, with winds whipping up to 68 miles per hour (109 km/h) beneath the falls, creating thrilling tropical storm-like conditions.

 

Don't miss your chance to uncover the hidden treasures of the new Cave of the Winds, located near the former site of the magnificent Aeolus's Cave.