Are you fascinated by the idea of getting up close to the unstoppable power of a waterfall? If your answer is yes, then you can’t miss a visit to the Cave of the Winds, where you can almost touch the overwhelming force of the Bridal Veil Falls in the Niagara Falls complex.
Let’s find out everything you need to know to organize your excursion effectively.
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How to Get to the Cave of the Winds
Reaching this attraction is very simple as it is located within Goat Island, easily accessible on foot or by car from the city of Niagara Falls on the American side (if you want to explore the difference between the American and Canadian sides of the falls, I suggest reading our article on the best things to do at Niagara Falls).
Finding parking should not be very problematic, as the island has two spacious parking lots, one near the entrance to the Cave of the Winds and one in the eastern area of the island. Please note that parking has a one-time cost of $10 per day.
What is the Cave of the Winds
Once you arrive at the entrance of the Cave of the Winds complex, you will comfortably reach a wooden walkway through an elevator that is located almost at the level of the Niagara River. By walking a short distance, you will arrive at the famous Hurricane Deck where you will be literally just steps away from the falls. Of course, you will have been provided with waterproof gear beforehand because, similar to the Maid of the Mist boat cruise, it will be virtually impossible not to get wet.
The view you will enjoy will be unique, and you can get a taste of what to expect with this video.
Best Time to Visit the Cave of the Winds
If you plan to visit the Cave of the Winds, you must pay close attention to the time of year you’ll be in the area because the wooden walkway leading to the falls is disassembled and rebuilt seasonally. The walkway is taken down in November and reassembled in the spring to prevent weather-related deterioration in the Niagara Gorge during the winter months.
If you find yourself in the area during the “unlucky” period, you will still have the opportunity to use the Cave of the Winds Gorge Walk, which allows you to observe the falls from the scenic platforms. It might be a bit less exciting, but at least you’ll stay dry!
For more information on the climate you can expect in the area, I recommend reading our article about the best time to visit Niagara Falls to learn more.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Regarding the opening hours and ticket prices, the following information is based on 2023. In case of any changes, it’s recommended to keep an eye on the official website for the most up-to-date information.
- Adults: $21
- Children (6 to 12 years): $17
- Children under 6 years old can enter for free, like all attractions at Niagara Falls
The entrance to the Cave of the Winds is allowed every day, usually from 8 to 6.15 PM. Below are the schedules for the autumn and winter periods.
- October 1 to October 8: 9 AM to 6:15 PM
- October 9 to October 15: 9 AM to 4:15 PM
- October 16 to March 31:Â 22: 9 AM to 4 PM
- Closing Days: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day.
The Cave of the Winds Gorge Trip
In case you’re in the area during the closure of the walkway, these are the prices for the alternative activity.
- Adults: $14
- Children: $10
Cave of the Winds Tour
If you don’t want to organize your Cave of the Winds excursion independently or prefer to include other attractions in your visit, you can consider choosing a tour that allows you to make the most of your time.
We’re talking about the half-day tour of Niagara Falls. By choosing this activity, in addition to access to the Cave of the Winds, you’ll have the opportunity to take a ride on the famous Maid of the Mist boat and visit the Observation Tower.
And if you want to add an extra adventurous touch to your experience, why not consider one of the many helicopter tours of Niagara Falls? This way, you can combine the up-close view of the Cave of the Winds with the spectacular aerial view from above.
