TUNNEL TOURS OF NIAGARA FALLS
One of the newest attractions available on Niagara Falls tours may also prove to be one of the best. Explore a never before seen underground world.
The Niagara Falls Tunnel attraction can be enjoyed as part of a customized private Niagara Falls tour.
WHAT IS THE NIAGARA FALLS TUNNEL EXPERIENCE?
The Niagara Falls Tunnel Experience is a tourist attraction located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. It is an underground tunnel that runs behind the Horseshoe Falls, the most powerful and iconic of the three Niagara Falls.
The tunnel experience begins with an elevator ride that takes visitors 180 feet (54 meters) down to the base of the Niagara Gorge. From there, visitors walk through the tunnel built in 1905, which was originally built to provide hydraulic power to the region. (1)
Along the way, visitors can see and feel the power of the Falls as water rushes past the tunnel's portals. The tunnel is lined with historical displays that showcase the history of the Niagara River and the Falls, as well as the construction of the tunnel itself.
At the end of the tunnel, visitors emerge onto a viewing platform that once served as an exit for the water used to generate power for over a century.
Overall, the Niagara Falls Tunnel Experience is a fascinating and educational way to learn about the history and power of the Niagara Falls while enjoying an up-close and personal view of one of nature's most awe-inspiring wonders.
HOW MUCH DOES A NIAGARA FALLS TUNNEL TOUR COST?
The Tunnel Experience is included in the Niagara Parks Power Station ticket price. You can check out the Niagara Parks website for up to date information on hours, pricing and parking.
HISTORY OF THE NIAGARA FALLS TUNNEL
The tunnels at Niagara Falls have a rich history that dates back to the 1800s, when engineers first began exploring the potential for using the power of the falls to generate electricity.
In 1853, the Niagara Falls Hydraulic Power and Manufacturing Company was formed to harness the energy of the Falls for industrial purposes. (2)
The first tunnel was completed in 1894. It runs 2,200 feet (670 meters) behind the Horseshoe Falls and was designed to divert water from the Niagara River to power turbines that generated electricity.
Over the next few decades, additional tunnels were constructed to increase the flow of water and generate more power. In 1921, the Canadian Niagara Power Company completed the construction of a second tunnel that was larger and more efficient than the original.
In the 1950s and 60s, new tunnels were built to increase the power-generating capacity of the Niagara Falls power plants. (3)
Today, the tunnels are a popular tourist attraction, allowing visitors to experience the power and majesty of the Falls from a unique and up-close perspective.
Walk Niagara Tours offers all-inclusive walking tours of Niagara Falls. Our tour guides lead groups 7 days a week between April and November.