5 Things You’ll Learn On A Niagara Falls Tour With An Expert Guide
When you think of Niagara Falls, images of thundering waters and breathtaking vistas likely come to mind. But beyond its natural beauty, Niagara Falls is steeped in captivating history and intriguing tales. At Magnificent Tours, our expert Niagara Falls Tour Guides bring these stories to life, offering you simply the best tour experiences. Here are five fascinating facts about Niagara Falls that our local guides love to share with guests on our sightseeing tours of Niagara Falls:
1. The First Daredevil to Conquer the Falls
In 1901, Annie Edson Taylor, a 63-year-old schoolteacher, became the first person to survive a trip over Niagara Falls in a barrel. Seeking fame and fortune, she undertook this daring feat on her birthday, October 24. Though she survived with minor injuries, Taylor cautioned others against attempting the stunt, stating she’d rather face a cannon than repeat the experience.
2. An Astonishing Volume of Water
Niagara Falls is renowned for its impressive water flow. Approximately 2.8 million liters (about 740,000 gallons) of water cascade over the Falls every second, making it one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world.
3. The Origin of the Name ‘Niagara’
The name ‘Niagara’ is believed to have originated from the Iroquoian word “Onguiaahra,” meaning “the strait.” This refers to the narrow channel connecting Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, over which the Niagara River flows.
4. The Day the Falls Ran Dry
Niagara Falls has only run dry on two occasions. One natural, the other man-made. On March 30, 1848, Niagara Falls experienced an unprecedented event—it temporarily ceased to flow. An ice jam at the mouth of the Niagara River on Lake Erie halted the water for about 30 to 40 hours. Locals were astonished to see the riverbed exposed, with fish flopping on the dry ground. In 1969, the American Falls were “turned off” for a seven month stretch by the US Army Corps of Engineers to allow for repairs to be made to the eroding face of the American Falls.
5. Debunking the Frozen Falls Myth
While images of a “frozen” Niagara Falls often circulate during winter, the Falls never completely freeze. Even in the coldest temperatures, the immense volume and speed of the water prevent a total freeze. What visitors often see is a crust of ice forming over the surface, creating a stunning winter spectacle, but the water continues to flow beneath.
Experience Niagara’s Best Tour
Discover these stories and more with Magnificent Tours. Our expert guides provide in-depth insights into the rich history and natural wonders of Niagara Falls, ensuring you get the most out of your Niagara Falls Tour. Whether you choose our Scenic Tour or opt for The Best Tour of Niagara Falls, our guides strive to deliver simply the best tour experiences.
Book your Niagara Falls tour today and immerse yourself in the captivating tales that make this destination truly unique.
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