Outdoor Adventure

Nothing says the great outdoors like a trip to Niagara Falls USA. From plying the waters of local creeks on a kayak to embarking on a snowshoe trek through a winter wonderland, you’ll find myriad ways to make the most of all four seasons in Niagara.

SPRING

As temperatures warm and tiny buds sprout on tree branches, you’ll want to soak up spring in Niagara Falls USA. It’s an ideal time to take advantage of nature’s beauty — without the crowds.

• Hiking: Lace up your hiking boots to enjoy spring’s awakening at DeVeaux Woods State Park or along the scenic trails that parallel the Niagara River Gorge on the Niagara Gorge Trail System. 

• Shooting: Turkey hunting season arrives in spring. Get ready with a visit to the 3F Club or the North Forest Rod & Gun Club, where you can practice your aim with shooting sports such as skeet, trap and sporting clays.

• Birding: Bring binoculars for spectacular birding along the Niagara River. In spring, you can spot great blue herons, ring-billed gulls on Goat Island and a wide selection of waterfowl. Other birdwatching areas include Whirlpool State Park and Fort Niagara State Park. 

SUMMER

School’s out and the sun’s up! Summer in Niagara Falls USA invites you to explore the outdoors with the season’s long, leisurely days and nature in full bloom.

• Boating: The Maid of the Mist boat tour takes you within feet of the thunderous roar and cooling mist of the Falls. Or captain your own boat with a kayak excursion along Cayuga Creek or the Niagara River. An Erie Canal cruise is a relaxing way to learn about the region’s rich history.

• Camping: Campgrounds — with everything from cabins and RV hook-ups to tent sites — abound throughout the region. Niagara Falls Campground & Lodging sits six miles from the Falls, while the family-friendly Four Mile Creek State Park, 15 minutes north of the Falls, offers climate-controlled yurts.

• Golfing: Tee off at picturesque public courses, such as the Robert Trent Jones II-designed course at Seneca Hickory Stick. And don’t miss the Porter Cup Golf Tournament held every July.

FALL

Niagara Falls USA is home to thousands of acres of parks. Come fall, these areas show off the brilliant colors of the changing leaves — burnt orange, bright yellow, rust red — so, no matter what outdoor activity you choose, scenic beauty surrounds.

• Biking: Rent a bicycle near the entrance to Niagara Falls State Park or by LaSalle Waterfront Park, then pedal off for a leaf-peeping ride. You can explore historic villages by cycling along the Erie Canalway Trail.

• Fishing: Anglers can sign up for the Lake Ontario Counties Fall Trout and Salmon Derby, which offers a $25,000 grand prize for the largest trout or salmon caught. Or cast away in the River Region, as salmon begin their fall migration up the Niagara River and Lake Ontario tributaries.

• Apple Picking: During fall harvest, local farms welcome the public to enjoy u-pick fun. Head to Blackman Homestead Farms for apple picking or Baker Farm Market & U-Pick for cider-tasting and pumpkin-browsing.

WINTER

Yes, winter brings cold winds and shorter days, but that’s no reason to stay indoors. In addition to touring the frozen Falls — a must-do this time of year — the season offers plenty of other outdoor fun in the winter.

• Snowshoeing: Traverse the snowy landscape on a four-mile trek at Wilson-Tuscarora State Park. Other favorite spots for snowshoeing include Royalton Ravine and Bond Lake Park.

• Snowmobiling: You’ll find several miles of spacious trails throughout the region that are ideal for snowmobiling. Local outfitters offer tours and equipment rentals.

• Ice Skating: Have you been waiting for a chance to practice your double axel? Winter in Niagara Falls USA is the perfect time. Glide across the ice at Lewiston Family Ice Rink, a seasonal outdoor ice rink. Weather depending, you can also lace up your skates (skate rentals are not available, so be sure to bring your own!) for free at DeVeaux Woods & Reservoir State Park.