Three Sisters Islands
A serene escape off Goat Island, offering stunning views of the powerful upper rapids of the Niagara River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Three Sisters Islands
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene escape off Goat Island, offering stunning views of the powerful upper rapids of the Niagara River.
"A beautiful and calm walk to Three Sisters Island, a peaceful oasis with wonderful views of the rapids."
🚗 Convenient Parking
Look for 20-minute parking near the trail start or a larger lot nearby. :parking:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Stone walkways are lovely but best enjoyed in comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Rapids Views
Pathways connecting the islands
Witness the raw power of the Niagara River as it rushes towards Horseshoe Falls. Mesmerizing and intense!
Peaceful Stone Walkways
On the islands
Stroll along picturesque stone paths, a tranquil escape with the soothing sound of rushing water.
Wildlife Encounters
Island foliage
Enjoy the company of local birds and squirrels in this serene natural setting. Pack a picnic!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Three Sisters Islands
Accessing the Islands
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Convenient Parking
Look for 20-minute parking near the trail start or a larger lot nearby. :parking:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Stone walkways are lovely but best enjoyed in comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and feed the local wildlife. :sandwich:
📸 Capture the Rapids
The views of the upper rapids are stunning; bring your camera! :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Convenient Parking
Look for 20-minute parking near the trail start or a larger lot nearby. :parking:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Stone walkways are lovely but best enjoyed in comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and feed the local wildlife. :sandwich:
📸 Capture the Rapids
The views of the upper rapids are stunning; bring your camera! :camera:
🎶 Bring an Instrument
A great spot for plein air painting or playing music. :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Three Sisters Islands as a peaceful oasis with mesmerizing views of the powerful upper rapids. Many appreciate the tranquil stone walkways and the opportunity to connect with nature, even suggesting it as a perfect picnic spot. While some find the walk to the islands a bit much, the beauty and serenity of the islands themselves are consistently praised.
"Located off Goat Island upstream of Horseshoe Falls, this group actually consists of four small islands. The three largest were named after the daughter of General Parkhurst Whitney (Asenath, Angeline, and Celinda Eliza), and the fourth is referred to as Little Brother Island or Solon.
The three larger islands can be accessed via footbridges from Goat Island; the path to the bridge is located near the Terrapin Point Viewing Area. Like a peaceful oasis, the islands feature picturesque stone walkways and cheerful foliage while giving visitors a unique perspective of the Upper Falls area."
Sanjay Gupta
"A beautiful and calm walk to Three Sisters Island. There’s free 20-minute parking near the start of the trail, which was super convenient. The area is peaceful, with wonderful views of the rapids that lead toward Horseshoe Falls."
Camila
"What a beautiful piece of heaven. I could sit here and listen to the rush of the water all day long. I got lost in the sound. Truly magnificent. We also spent some time feeding the squirrels and the birds in the park. Make sure to pack a picnic lunch for yourself and the little creature that inhabit the park."
Ronelle Fortune
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Three Sisters Islands are located off the south shoreline of Goat Island in Niagara Falls State Park, New York. You can access them via footbridges from Goat Island. +1
Yes, there is parking available. Some spots have a 20-minute limit, while a larger parking area is also nearby.
Absolutely! The islands are connected by footbridges from Goat Island, making them easily accessible for a walk.
The path to the bridge is located near the Terrapin Point Viewing Area on Goat Island.
Walking the stone pathways and enjoying the views of the upper rapids is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Three Sisters Islands are part of Niagara Falls State Park, which generally has free access to its grounds. There are no specific tickets required for the islands themselves.
While the park grounds are free to enter, some attractions within the park, like the Maid of the Mist or Cave of the Winds, do have admission fees. The Three Sisters Islands are accessible without additional cost.
Niagara Falls State Park is open year-round, and the Three Sisters Islands are accessible during park hours, typically from dawn until dusk.
Yes, the islands are accessible in winter and offer a unique, serene beauty with icy landscapes.
Visiting during weekday mornings or late afternoons can help you avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy peaceful walks on stone pathways, admire the powerful upper rapids of the Niagara River, and observe local wildlife like birds and squirrels. It's also a great spot for photography or relaxation.
The three largest islands are named after the daughters of General Parkhurst Whitney: Asenath, Angeline, and Celinda Eliza.
Expect stunning views of the upper rapids as they race towards Horseshoe Falls, offering a unique perspective of the river's power.
Yes, there are large restrooms located nearby the hiking paths.
Definitely! The dramatic rapids and natural scenery make it a fantastic spot for photographers. +1
🍽️ 🧺 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly on the islands. However, it's a perfect spot for a picnic, and there are dining options available elsewhere in Niagara Falls State Park or nearby.
Yes, bringing a picnic is highly recommended! It's a beautiful place to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
You can find various restaurants in the Niagara Falls area, from casual eateries to sit-down dining. Some TikToks mention grabbing pizza nearby after visiting.
While it's tempting, it's generally best to avoid feeding the wildlife to maintain their natural behaviors and health.
Niagara Falls, NY offers a range of cuisines. Some visitors enjoy casual spots like pizza places after exploring the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints overlooking the powerful upper rapids are prime photography locations. The stone walkways also offer scenic shots. +1
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour lighting, while early mornings can offer softer light and fewer people.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the rapids and islands. A telephoto lens can be useful for details.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national and state parks, including Niagara Falls State Park, for safety and privacy reasons. Always check park regulations before flying.
Yes, you can photograph the birds and squirrels, but remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Photographers
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers
Many visitors find it to be a surprisingly tranquil escape. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of the Rapids
These islands are not just about the view; they are a testament to the river's journey. The stone walkways allow you to get up close and personal with the upper rapids, feeling the spray and hearing the roar. It's an experience that truly immerses you in the environment, making you appreciate the raw energy of the falls.
A Tranquil Escape
This serene atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for activities like plein air painting, playing a musical instrument, or simply relaxing with a good book.
The islands offer a different perspective of Niagara Falls State Park, one that emphasizes quiet contemplation amidst natural beauty. It's a hidden gem that many TikTok and Instagram creators highlight for its under-appreciated beauty. History and Naming
While the focus is often on the natural spectacle, understanding the origins of the names can enhance the visitor's appreciation for the area. It's a reminder that these natural wonders often have human stories intertwined with them.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit