Polaroid of the Week: Returning to the Majestic Niagara Falls
Hello from Niagara Falls! If you've followed my recent life and travel update, you'll know I left New York for a refreshing change of scenery and returned to Niagara Falls this weekend. Standing on the crest line today, watching the water cascade over the cliffs and thunder into the rocks below, I felt profoundly grateful to witness this magnificent natural wonder not once, but twice in my lifetime.
Exactly three years ago, I first visited Niagara Falls on the Canadian side. This time, I explored the American Falls, which left me just as awestruck as my initial trip in 2011. After experiencing both Iguazu and Niagara Falls, I initially echoed Eleanor Roosevelt's words upon seeing Iguazu: 'Poor Niagara.' But getting up close on the American side changed that—I was once again captivated by its raw power.
The Cave of the Winds walkways bring you perilously close to Bridal Veil Falls. No one leaves the wooden catwalks dry, especially on the Hurricane Deck. Water surges toward the viewing platforms at the base and sides of the falls, creating the thrilling sensation that you might be swept away by the massive torrents. Within minutes, I was soaked from the pervasive mist and the waves crashing forcefully onto the platforms.
There's no better way to grasp the true might of this world wonder—over six million cubic feet (168,000 m3) of water plummet down the 167 ft (51 m) falls every minute! The deafening roar drowns out all conversation, forcing you to shout to be heard. On the Hurricane Deck, true to its name, you're completely drenched, as if standing directly under the cascade. Though smaller than Iguazu, Niagara delivers an unforgettable, exhilarating experience.
