Thigns You Probably Don't Know About Niagara Falls

By Chris Channing

Everyone knows the Niagara Falls, located in Ontario, Canada. But not everyone knows the long history, fun facts, and interesting things that surround the impressive dual waterfall. Even as far back as the 1800's, all sorts of curious onlookers observed these magnificent waterfalls as a true natural inspiration in life.

A "free" type of energy is harnessed from the Niagara Falls that most are unaware of. The powerful waters in the river are taken advantage of, as they move turbines that can power electricity to the surrounding neighborhood. The electricity is obtained via a clean method, meaning there are no harmful products of obtaining the energy unlike other methods of creating energy.

There have been no end to daredevils trying to make a name for themselves with the Niagara Falls. From jumping into the waters completely to actually going over the waterfall inside a barrel, many risk takers have lost their lives in these risky scenarios. Some have even done tight-rope walking attempts over the river with no safety harnesses- something clearly too dangerous for any sane man to try.

Because of the popularity in tourism of the area, businesses have tried to out perform the competition in who can provide a better service to the community. Hotels are an example, with many hotels making enormous sky towers that give excellent views of the Niagara Falls. This has impacted the winds of the Niagara Falls, and now the mist resulting from the waterfalls has been shifted in a different direction.

One of the neat things about winter is that every year the Niagara Falls start to freeze over. The Niagara Falls never completely freeze over in most cases, but this has been documented to happen nonetheless. Huge sheets of ice build up that are considered safe to walk over, but due to dangers of the ice breaking up in warmer seasons, this is strictly prohibited. Much like the daredevils, fines or even arrests may be made for violators.

The future of the Niagara Falls is certain- they aren't going anywhere. Even natural forces such as erosion are being controlled through preservation efforts. False rock beds and supports have been installed to ensure erosion won't degrade the Niagara Falls as we know them today. Underwater tunnels also divert any powerful currents away so that the riverbeds stay healthy enough to continue a healthy existence.

Final Thoughts

Ontario is a wonderful place to visit, but tourists agree this is due mostly in part to the Niagara Falls. If you are planning a trip in the surrounding area, be sure to give the location a visit for a fun family opportunity or even for a sole venture to see natural wonders of the world.

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Learn more on facts about Niagara Falls and Niagra Falls history.