Niagara Falls

Pete, Mare, and Mary

Niagara Falls (August 20-22).  We stayed in a KOA campground in Grand Island, NY, conveniently located between Buffalo and Niagara Falls. After settling into our campsite, we spent an enchanting evening at the lovely old home of Pete and Mare.  Mary's arrival was an added bonus.  Just sitting outside with delightful conversation, in perfect temperature, eating a delicious pork loin meal, looking at the big urn fountain and the garden lights beyond, was so enjoyable. 

Spray from Horseshoe Falls

The next day we boarded a small bus for a 6-hour tour to the Canadian side of the Falls.  Highlights included: Journey Behind the Falls, where we could view cascading water from rock tunnel apertures, and then to a ledge beside Horseshoe falls; a bus ride down the river to the Moses Dam; a horticultural college with lovely gardens and a floral clock that changes design regularly; and last and best, the ride on the Maid of the Mist boat that goes beside the American Falls and into the misty curve of the Horseshoe Falls.  When I first saw Niagara Falls from a distance, I commented to Dave that they were smaller than I had imagined.  But on the Maid of the Mist, I was struck by how powerful and massive they really are.  There’s no better way to experience the Falls than from the bottom of them.

Maid of the Mist

Later that evening we drove back to Goat Island, which splits the American and Canadian Falls.  The island afforded yet another interesting perspective as we could see the top of the falls on both sides and stand right where the water tumbled over the precipice to the rocks below.  Fireworks provided a perfect ending to a perfect day!