Niagara Falls - American Falls

As I stated in yesterday's post, when people see photos of Niagara Falls, most of the photos are of the Canadian Falls. Today I am concentrating on the American Falls so you can appreciate the grandeur of them also. In many ways, I personally think the American Falls have much more character and are just as spectacular as the Canadian Falls.

A little background about the American Falls. Because of the make-up of the substrata, the American Falls is subject to a faster erosion rate than the Canadian Falls. The American Falls had a dramatic change in appearance in the early 20th Century, when the face of the falls collapse and the debris collected at it's base. As spectacular as the American Falls are, only about 10% of the Niagara River water flows there. The Canadian Falls accounts for approximately 80% of the Niagara River flow, while an additional 10% is diverted above the falls to run the turbines in the power plants. As you look at the photos I'm posting, keep in mind the differences between the American and Canadian Falls, and appreciate how each is spectacular in their own way. Here goes!

The American Falls

Another View

With Maid of the Mist going by

Amy by rail in Canada with American Falls in background

Amy and I coming from Maid of the Mist dock, with the American Falls in the background

Base of the American Falls from a deck at the top of the falls

Hurricane Deck.
Every year, this deck is rebuilt in the Spring so people can venture out to the base of the falls. It is called Hurricane Deck because as you stand there, the water and the wind generated by the water, feels as if you are standing outside in a hurricane.

Amy on the way to the Hurricane Deck

Upper American Falls.
The Niagara River just prior to going over the American Falls.

The Niagara River heading to the falls with the tower in the background.

Tranquility!
Even with all the turbulence and power of the water, delicate flower prosper on the shore.

As you can see, the American Falls can stand on it's own merit. So, next time you see photos of Niagara Falls and they are of the Canadian Falls, remember there is a sister falls just as spectacular.

Until tomorrow.