American Falls (New York side) in July 2006

I don’t really have to say a whole lot about Niagara Falls, of which American Falls is one of three falls that are collectively called Niagara Falls. When we visited around the Fourth of July, this place was crazy busy, but I’m guessing that it’s busy most of the summer months.

American Falls and Horseshoe Falls are the two pieces that stand out the most, at least compared to the much smaller Bridalveil Falls. I believe they’re all the same height though. Some people don’t care for these waterfalls as they’ve been commercialized too much. There are so many different ways to enjoy the falls, but many of them are surprisingly expensive.
While the commercialization might not be attractive, the beauty of the falls is undeniable. As I’ve said before, I also like to see how humans have built and interacted with wateralls, and American Falls is a perfect example of this. If you notice in the picture, they’ve built a boardwalk that juts out over the river, allowing for a better view of the falls. I think it’s architecturally very appealing and adds an interesting layer of beauty to the falls. I think you have to pay to even go out on the boardwalk, though…

Visit in 2015:  In July 2015, I had the chance to visit Niagara Falls again, this time from the Canadian side. I generally agree with others that the views are better from the Canadian side, though I will admit the Canadian side seems FAR more commercialized. Even then, I still got beautiful views from along the ledge, at night when the falls are lit up, and via the boat tour. The boat tour that goes near the falls is pretty awesome! 🙂

Directions:
There are probably only a gazillion ways to get to the falls, so I am going to include this link that provides directions to the falls from multiple different directions.

If you want to view the falls from the Canadian side, and you are American, don’t forget that as of 2009, you need a passport, passport card, or an enhanced driver’s license.

Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Length of Hike: Depends on where you start!
Height: 70-110′ (to rock pile), 188′ to river

View of the American and Bridalveil Falls from the boat (July 2015)

American and Bridalveil Falls lit at night (July 2015)

View from the Canadian side (July 2015)

Where in the World is American Falls?