Whirlpool State Park

Closed — Open year-round for day use from dawn to dusk. This is a day-use park only and does not offer overnight camping. Some gorge trails are currently closed due to fallen rocks and unstable conditions.

About

Whirlpool State Park is a 109-acre day-use park located along the Niagara Scenic Parkway in Niagara County, two miles north of Niagara Falls. The park offers dramatic views of the Niagara Whirlpool and the lower Niagara Gorge from multiple vantage points. The park is organized into two distinct levels. The upper street level features numerous scenic overlooks with spectacular views of the swirling whirlpool waters and rapids, along with picnic facilities equipped with tables and grills, a playground for children, and restroom facilities. The Gorge Natural History Room at the restroom building is currently under renovation. The lower river level is accessed via a staircase that descends approximately 300 feet into the gorge. At the base, visitors can hike the Whirlpool Rapids Trail upstream past the whirlpool or connect to the Devil's Hole Trail downstream. The trails offer close-up views of the raging Niagara River and opportunities for fishing. Note that Trail 5 south of the Flats and portions of Trail 6 between Devil's Hole Stairs and Whirlpool Stairs are currently closed due to fallen rocks and unstable conditions. The park also connects to the Niagara Gorge Rim Trail for biking and walking.

Directions

Whirlpool State Park is located along the Niagara Scenic Parkway, approximately 2 miles north of Niagara Falls, NY. From downtown Niagara Falls, take the Niagara Scenic Parkway northbound; the park entrance will be on your left.

Nearby Campgrounds