Niagara Falls State Park is the most visited state park in New York State.  The park had over six million visitors during the summer of 2010.  The park isn't really known as a hiking mecca as other state parks might be.  The park has a nice paved trail system that is at times overlooked because of the other attractions.  It is one of those must see places.

Leave Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds and the other attractions to the tourists.  Explore the park utilizing the trails.  Spend the dollar to walk on the Observation Deck to get the panoramic view above.  Hike the loop around Goat Island and walk along the Rim Trail at Prospect Point and under the Rainbow Bridge toward the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center.  There are hiking trails that begin from the Discovery Center including the Great Gorge Railway Trail.  There are no fees to park in the parking area at the Discovery Center (like the other state park lots that charge $10).

The Conservation Trail enters Niagara State Park along the paved path that follows the Niagara River toward Prospect Point.  The 170+ mile Conservation Trail travels from the NY/PA border in Allegany State Park through Niagara Falls State Park and crosses the Rainbow Bridge to meet the Bruce Trail in Canada.  The Conservation Trail is a branch trail of the 900+ mile Finger Lakes Trail System.

Look below for pictures, a video and maps to assist in planning for your Niagara Falls State Park adventure.  You can also check out the park website at www.niagarafallsstatepark.com.  If your looking for a campground located nearby, we suggest trying Four Mile Creek State Park.  While in the area be sure to check out Whirlpool State Park, Devil's Hole State Park, Joseph Davis State Park and Fort Niagara State Park.

Horseshoe Falls from Terrapin Point

Rainbow Bridge & American Falls

Niagara Gorge