Devil's Hole State Park
Explore the dramatic Niagara Gorge floor, hike to a cool cave, and witness powerful river rapids. Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Devil's Hole State Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the dramatic Niagara Gorge floor, hike to a cool cave, and witness powerful river rapids. Free admission!
"A challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views of the Niagara River rapids and a unique cave."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The gorge trail is rocky and uneven. Sneakers or hiking boots are a must for safety .
💧 Check Staircase Status
Stairs to the gorge floor can close for maintenance. Confirm access before your visit .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Devil's Hole Cave
Lower Gorge Trail
A cool, dark cavern with air emanating from its depths, offering a unique natural wonder.
Niagara Gorge Floor Trail
Base of the gorge
Hike along the powerful Niagara River, experiencing rapid whirlpools and dramatic cliffside views.
Niagara Gorge Rim Trail
Top of the gorge
An easier, crushed-stone path connecting Devil's Hole and Whirlpool State Parks with scenic overlooks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Staircase Access & Trail Conditions
Navigating the Gorge Floor
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The gorge trail is rocky and uneven. Sneakers or hiking boots are a must for safety.
💧 Check Staircase Status
Stairs to the gorge floor can close for maintenance. Confirm access before your visit.
🗺️ Stay on Marked Trails
Cell service is spotty. Pay attention to signs to avoid getting lost or encountering hazards.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Large snakes have been spotted. Be aware of your surroundings and give wildlife space.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The gorge trail is rocky and uneven. Sneakers or hiking boots are a must for safety.
💧 Check Staircase Status
Stairs to the gorge floor can close for maintenance. Confirm access before your visit.
🗺️ Stay on Marked Trails
Cell service is spotty. Pay attention to signs to avoid getting lost or encountering hazards.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Large snakes have been spotted. Be aware of your surroundings and give wildlife space.
🎒 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the gorge floor. Stay hydrated and fueled for your hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Devil's Hole State Park's stunning natural beauty and free access. The gorge floor hike, though challenging with its steep stairs and rocky paths, offers a unique and exhilarating experience close to the powerful Niagara River rapids. While some find the climb strenuous, the views and the cool air from the Devil's Hole cave are highly rewarding. A few reviewers noted issues with trail signage and the potential dangers for young children.
"FREE park and free parking ! Access the lower trail via 300+ stairs . Lower trail is rated moderate & does not provide cell service. Watch your footing, some spots can get sketchy. Lots of locations to pause & view the water/rapids . Higher trail is easy with crushed stone and has cell service . Large snakes 🐍. To the left brings you to whirlpool park / trails ."
Sarah Marie Lynn
"What a beautiful view and scenery. I absolutely loved and enjoyed this place and it’s a perfect spot for trekking and hiking with ur furry buddies.
Also u may need a pair of sneakers if trekking for the trail is a little rocky."
eru—n
"Great hike. We started by descending the Westerns stairs. When we got to the bottom we turned right (east) instead of left because there was no signs. We ended up going down a tight trail with a lot of spiders and poison ivy to eventually make it to a dead end. All which is fine, we are outside on a hike, and took a wrong turn, I just wish there was an extra sign at bottom to point to the correct trail.
Once on the correct trial, we found the devil's hole and it was really cool. Deep dark, cool air, water coming out. Very cool to see (for a rock formation). There was 1 section of the trail were it was extremely narrow footing (see video) and if you fell you would end up in the rapids. Little sketchy so I wouldn't bring kids on this hike, too dangerous."
Harlan Ferguson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devil's Hole State Park is located at 3180 DeVeaux Woods Dr, Niagara Falls, NY. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available.
Information on public transportation directly to Devil's Hole State Park can be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services. Check local Niagara Falls transit schedules for potential bus routes that may stop nearby.
Yes, the Niagara Gorge Rim Trail connects these two parks. You can park at either and hike the rim trail, or descend into the gorge at one and ascend at the other, though this requires careful planning and awareness of trail conditions.
Yes, Devil's Hole State Park offers free admission and free parking, making it a great budget-friendly option for exploring the Niagara Gorge.
There is free parking available at Devil's Hole State Park. This is convenient for accessing both the rim trail and the gorge floor trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Devil's Hole State Park is a free state park. There are no admission fees or tickets required to enter or explore its trails.
State parks are generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific trail access, especially the gorge floor, may be subject to seasonal closures or weather-related advisories. It's always a good idea to check the official New York State Parks website for the most current information.
While there are no strict age restrictions, the gorge floor trail is considered moderately challenging and can be dangerous for young children due to steep stairs, rocky terrain, and proximity to rapids. Adult supervision is highly recommended.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in New York State Parks, including Devil's Hole State Park, as long as they are on a leash. They are welcome on the trails, including the gorge floor, but ensure they are comfortable with the terrain and the hike.
The rim trail is an easier, crushed-stone path that is more accessible. The gorge floor trail, with its steep stairs and rocky terrain, is not suitable for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Devil's Hole Trail descends over 300 stone stairs to the gorge floor. The trail leads to the Devil's Hole cave and offers views of the Niagara River rapids.
The hike to the gorge floor is considered moderately challenging, primarily due to the steep, long staircase and the rocky, uneven terrain at the bottom. The climb back up can be strenuous, especially in warm weather.
The Devil's Hole whirlpool is a powerful eddy in the Niagara River, known for its turbulent rapids and treacherous conditions. The gorge floor trail offers views of this natural phenomenon.
Yes, there are several viewpoints along the Niagara Gorge Rim Trail offering stunning vistas of the river and gorge. The gorge floor trail also provides unique perspectives from water level.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential. A camera is recommended to capture the dramatic scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints along the rim trail offer panoramic shots of the gorge. Down on the gorge floor, you can get dramatic close-ups of the river rapids and the unique rock formations, including the Devil's Hole cave itself.
While the views are spectacular, some sections of the gorge floor trail are narrow with steep drop-offs to the rapids. Exercise extreme caution when taking photos, especially if you're alone or have children with you.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge views. If you plan to photograph the rapids, a telephoto lens can help isolate details. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures of the water.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh, but the dramatic shadows can also create interesting photographic opportunities in the gorge.
Drone usage is typically restricted in New York State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the official New York State Parks regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 However, the gorge floor hike, with its steep, numerous stairs and rocky, potentially hazardous terrain, is generally not recommended for young children or those with mobility issues.🚶♀️ Active Hikers & Adventurers
Consider hiking the full length of the gorge floor trail connecting to Whirlpool State Park for a more extensive adventure. Remember to check trail conditions and be prepared for the strenuous nature of this hike.📸 Nature Photographers
+1 Down on the gorge floor, photographers can capture the dramatic power of the Niagara River rapids and the unique geological formations like the Devil's Hole cave. Be mindful of the challenging terrain and potential for water spray when shooting near the river.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Gorge Floor Hike
This descent immediately immerses you in a different environment, away from the rim's open vistas. Once at the bottom, the trail follows the powerful Niagara River, offering a visceral experience of its raw energy. You'll navigate rocky terrain, and some sections are narrow with significant drop-offs, demanding careful footing.The trail is approximately 2.5 miles round trip, leading to the famous Devil's Hole cave. This natural formation is a highlight, with cool air and water emanating from its depths, creating a unique microclimate.
Connecting Parks: The Niagara Gorge Rim Trail
+1 It conveniently connects Devil's Hole State Park with Whirlpool State Park, allowing for a longer, more leisurely exploration of the Niagara Gorge's upper reaches. This trail is ideal for those who prefer a less physically demanding experience, families with younger children, or individuals with mobility concerns.Walking the rim trail allows you to appreciate the vastness of the gorge and the power of the river from a safe distance. You'll encounter various overlooks, each offering a slightly different perspective. The fall foliage along this trail is particularly spectacular, making it a popular destination during autumn months.
+1 While cell service is generally available on the rim, it's always wise to have a map or download offline directions, especially if you plan to hike the full length between parks.Safety and Preparedness in the Gorge
Be aware that cell service is often non-existent in the gorge,
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