Niagara Mist

Heading out of Ithaca this morning, we make one more waterfall stop at Taughannock Falls State Park. Just another taste before the big event looming in Canada this afternoon! Again, we are in awe of the beauty that is in this area. It almost seems we're not worthy as the spectacular vista is visible with no hike involved whatsoever. We're not complaining!!



The drive along the Cayuga Lake is peaceful and makes for some beautiful scenery as we traverse north. A visit to the Finger Lakes again is highly likely as we begin to realize just how much this region offers. We have a very easy trip and cross over into Canada (my first time!) with relative ease. The falls welcoming grandly!












The rumor that the Canadian side is the prettiest is found to be incredibly true. The drive along the fall route is unbelievable and we find a small park with a beautiful skyline view to have a little picnic before beginning a closer journey to the roaring wonder.

Checking into our room at the Hilton, we're presented with a perfect view of both the United States and Canadian Falls and our excitement mounts. After settling in, we hike along the boardwalk pausing, gaping, and taking pics - we fall in well with all the other tourists. The walk to the Maid of the Mist is very fun and arriving brings memories of Disney trips - lots of people want to do this! Tickets are purchased, blue rain ponchos are secured and we anxiously await our turn to board the ship.

The 30-minute excursion is well worth the wait and the experience is all and more that has been promised. We have the perfect weather for this tour and being this close to the roar is phenomenal. As we enter the mist, we feel like we're entering a hurricane, it's exhilarating, a bit scary and just plain fun! This up close encounter is well worth the price of admission and a must do if ever you visit this force of nature.

Upon our exit, we find numerous stops to further enjoy this magnificence and we linger long enough to witness one of the most beautiful rainbows form to frame the subsequent boats venturing into the mist. It is exactly what the first glimpse of Niagara should be and we are very thankful.

The Hilton provides a panoramic dining venue in the Watermark Restaurant to enjoy delicious food while not missing a moment of the falls in action. Definitely on the expensive side, but it's our splurge for our quick visit - it is all about the falls after all - and Celeste's Prime Rib is to die for. As the sun sets, the lights of the falls and skyline come alive and bring another gorgeous sight. We finish our evening marveling at the view we are fortunate enough to have from our room and rest well in very comfortable beds. It has been quite a day!