Southern Ontario

FEEL THE THUNDER, WALK THE WHITE WATER

NIAGARA PARKS AN AWESOME 60K RIVER RUN

by Julie Watson

A sixty mile stretch of highway between Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake offers one of the most attractive ‘runs’ a person could ask for. The offerings here range from great parks and natural areas to attractions to suite all tastes.

This is an area that combines history, nature, adventure, modern and traditional attractions, and a great scenic drive.  First the run.  The Niagara Parks system extends along the entire length of the Niagara River and takes in some 4,250 acres. Personally I like to ride it the way the water flows - starting at Fort Erie.  As you follow the river the water flow builds in intensity, with impressive white water raging along just feet away.  You’ll feel the thunder, and the mist on your face as a cloud ahead warns of wet roads.  Suddenly the river disappears.  This is Niagara Falls where experts tell us one-fifth of the worlds fresh water plunges 52 meters to the lower Niagara River. 

Keep following the water and you will pass through lovely parks.  A stone wall rims the gorge that now contains the roaring river.  As you get closer to Lake Ontario it widens and turns into a calmer waterway. Beautiful in its own right, even if less dramatic.

You cannot see the river in the deep gorge from your bike but there are many opportunities to park  and take in the view.  Three stops not to be missed:

. The falls themselves.  You can gaze for free at Table Rock, or get up close and personal with the Journey Behind the Falls.  Or, board the Maid of the Mist to sail to the base of the falls. It’s a wet trip as the plume of mist surrounds the boat and spray from the free-falling walls of water finish the job. Not too worry though, they do provide panchos to keep you dry.

. The White Water Walk, a personal favourite, gets you down into the gorge with the power and beauty of the Niagara Class VI rapids just feet away from the boardwalk.

. The Whirlpool. It isn’t often most of us can actually see a whirlpool, let alone ride an Aero Car over one.  A ‘dog-leg’ in the river makes this ride high above the swirling water a memorable one - or so I’m told.  My fear of heights keeps me ashore when others venture out on this journey.  I happily take pictures to record their adventure!

You are now entering the gentler end of the park.  Gardens, a Butterfly Conservatory, numerous hiking trails and some great picnic areas warrant stops.  We enjoyed lunch at the Queenston Heights Restaurant and VQA Wine Bar - this is where you truly appreciate the high quality wines produced in the region.  Take your camera - again the view from Brock Monument and the gardens are a picture you will want to take home.

Back on the Parkway continue towards Niagara on the Lake. You will drop down the the top of the escarpment to almost river level.  Be prepared to slow down and just enjoy the wineries and spectacular homes along the way.  History buffs might want to visit the Laura Secord Homestead or the Mackenzie Printery & Newspaper Museum.  Then of course there is wonderful Old Fort Erie.

Niagara-on-the-lake offers some interesting little shops on the main drag, loads of eateries, theatre and more.

In a future article we’ll talk about exploring the country-side on a winery tour another great thing to do in southern Ontario.

If you have a little time to spare, do drop in to the Classic Iron Motorcycle Museum.  They have over 60 custom and vintage motorcycles on display, c 1961 to present day.  This museum, located at the top of Clifton Hill the amusement centre of Niagara Falls, they also have a nifty display of memorabilia and motorcycle art.  

TIPS

- If you want to play tourist in the Falls area consider parking your bike and taking a People Mover.  Parking is limited

- Staying for a day or two?  Check out the Niagara Falls Great Gorge Adventure Pass

to save $$$

- Go online to check for special activities.  There is always a lot going on from enactments to Cirque performances, from music to markets.  This is a vibrant region.

- If you love the tawdry, canned laughter of attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not, this is the place to be, especially at night. Clubs, casinos, shows, entertainment, its all there in Niagara Falls.

- Pause to be one with nature.  Floral displays, butterflies, or a simple walk in the woods or by the water is good for the spirit.

© julie watson (for full disclosure of reproduction and copyright terms please refer to the home page)

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