Journey Behind the Falls vs. Cave of the Winds

Dreaming of getting within about 20 feet of Niagara’s roar? Two experiences take you that close: Cave of the Winds on the U.S. side and Journey Behind the Falls in Canada. Not sure which one fits your time, budget, or comfort level? This guide breaks down the views, seasonality, wait times, prices, accessibility, weather factors, and crowd levels—so you can choose confidently and plan wisely.

What Will I Experience at Cave of the Winds?

At Cave of the Winds, your journey begins with a 175-foot elevator descent into the Niagara Gorge. After receiving a complimentary poncho and non-slip sandals, you’ll make your way to the legendary Hurricane Deck, where you’ll stand just 20 feet from the thundering Bridal Veil Falls.

Here, the rush of water towers above you, drenching the deck in mist and spray for a truly exhilarating encounter. Before or after your visit, explore The World Changed Here Pavilion to discover how Nikola Tesla harnessed the Falls’ power to pioneer alternating current technology.

What Will I Experience at Journey Behind the Falls?

At Journey Behind the Falls, you’ll descend 125 feet by elevator into historic, cave-like tunnels dating back over 130 years. From here, you can explore two outdoor observation decks and peer through two rock-cut portals located directly behind the cascading water.

These vantage points offer an awe-inspiring view of one-fifth of the world’s freshwater as it plunges into the basin below, with the mighty Horseshoe Falls thundering past at speeds of up to 65 kilometers per hour—a truly unforgettable perspective of Niagara’s raw power.

Journey Behind the Falls Vs Cave of the Winds

Cave of the Winds

Closest physical proximity to the falls:

Hurricane Deck puts you just 20 feet from Bridal Veil Falls, so close you can feel the water barrel down in sheets.

Multiple viewing angles:

From wooden walkways, decks, and platforms, you get varied perspectives of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and glimpses of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

Dynamic, interactive experience:

You can linger, move between decks, and choose how soaked you want to get.

Annual reconstruction:

The wooden walkways are rebuilt each spring, offering a fresh and safe experience every season.

Immersive “wind and spray” factor:

Competitors consistently note that Cave of the Winds is the wetter, more adrenaline-packed choice, especially for thrill seekers and photographers chasing misty rainbow shots.

Journey Behind the Falls

One-of-a-kind vantage point behind Horseshoe Falls:

Offers a literal “behind-the-water” experience through tunnels cut into solid bedrock.

Massive waterfall scale:

Lets you witness 750,000 gallons of water per second pouring over the edge, a flow rate unmatched by other falls in Niagara.

Historical tunnel experience:

The 130-year-old passageways and portals carry a sense of old-world exploration alongside modern safety upgrades.

Easier access for all visitors:

Elevators and sheltered tunnels make this a more comfortable option during bad weather or for those with limited mobility.

Canadian-side panoramic setting:

Steps away from the brink of Horseshoe Falls, with quick access to Table Rock Centre’s restaurants, shops, and other attractions.

Where is Each Located?

Cave of the Winds is located on the American side of Niagara Falls, on Goat Island within Niagara Falls State Park in New York, USA.

Journey Behind the Falls sits on the Canadian side, inside the Table Rock Centre, right next to the iconic Horseshoe Falls in Ontario.

In essence, the biggest distinction between the two is simply which side of the border you’re visiting.

How and when should I buy tickets for Cave of the Winds?

Tickets for Cave of the Winds can only be purchased in person at the entrance on Goat Island. This is a timed-entry attraction with limited capacity, so once a time slot is sold out, you’ll need to pick a later one (if available) or return another day.

In peak summer and on weekends, tickets can sell out fast, especially midday. If this is on your must-do list, buy your tickets as soon as you arrive at Niagara Falls State Park—ideally first thing in the morning.

What’s the best way to buy tickets for Journey Behind the Falls?

Journey Behind the Falls offers more flexibility. Tickets can be bought online in advance, on-site at the Table Rock Centre, or bundled into tour packages and the Niagara Adventure Pass. Online booking is strongly recommended in busy months (June–August) because it lets you choose your preferred time slot and skip the stress of sellouts.

What other attractions can I visit near Cave of the Winds?

Cave of the Winds is located on Goat Island inside Niagara Falls State Park, so you’re within walking distance of several other U.S.-side highlights:

Maid of the Mist:

Take the famous boat ride to the base of Horseshoe Falls and feel the spray up close. Boarding is just a short walk from the Cave of the Winds area.

Observation Tower:

Extending out over the Niagara Gorge, this tower offers panoramic views of all three waterfalls.

Crow’s Nest *(temporarily closed for upgrades until 2026):*

A short staircase climb to a platform offering a unique view beside the American Falls.

Luna Island:

A serene walking area between the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls for intimate, lesser-seen angles of the cascades.

What nearby attractions can I combine with Journey Behind the Falls?

Journey Behind the Falls is housed in the Table Rock Centre, right at the brink of Horseshoe Falls—making it a perfect hub for exploring several Canadian-side attractions:

Niagara Parks Power Station & The Tunnel:

A restored hydroelectric plant with immersive exhibits, plus a 2,200-foot tunnel leading to a riverside observation platform.

White Water Walk:

A boardwalk at the base of the gorge where you can see Class 6 rapids up close.

Hornblower Niagara City Cruises:

Canada’s version of the iconic boat ride into the mist of Horseshoe Falls.

Table Rock House Restaurant:

Enjoy a meal with floor-to-ceiling views of Horseshoe Falls, just steps from the attraction.

What is the history behind the Cave of the Winds?

Despite its name, Cave of the Winds no longer has a cave at all—but its story goes back nearly two centuries. In the mid-1800s, there was indeed a natural rock overhang behind Bridal Veil Falls, which early visitors could access via rickety staircases and ladders. This cavern was nicknamed the "Cave of the Winds" because of the powerful gusts generated by the rushing water.

However, by the early 20th century, rockfalls made the cave unsafe, and it was eventually destroyed in a controlled dynamite blast in 1954. Modern-day Cave of the Winds was rebuilt as a safe wooden walkway system, rebuilt annually each spring. Today, visitors descend 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge via elevator ride and follow a series of red wooden decks and the Hurricane Deck, where the thrill of the original cave’s wind and spray lives on—minus the hazards of unstable rock.

How did Journey Behind the Falls begin?

Journey Behind the Falls dates back to 1832, when a simple staircase allowed adventurous visitors to descend into the gorge for a close-up view of Horseshoe Falls. Over time, these basic steps were replaced by tunnels blasted through solid bedrock, creating safe passageways to unique viewpoints behind the curtain of water.

In its early years, the attraction was called the “Sheet of Falling Water” experience, highlighting the rare chance to see the falls from behind. The tunnels were later expanded and electrified, and in 1951, elevators replaced the long and sometimes treacherous staircase climb. Today, the tunnels and observation decks are part of a modern facility within the Table Rock Centre.

How does the Cave of the Winds experience change between summer and winter?

From spring to fall (May–October), Cave of the Winds operates at its most thrilling. During this period, the complete wooden walkway system—including the famous Hurricane Deck—is installed each spring, allowing visitors to get as close as possible to Bridal Veil Falls.

In winter (November–April), safety measures require most of the wooden walkways to be removed before ice forms. The Hurricane Deck is closed, but visitors can still take the elevator into the gorge and access a viewing platform at the base of Bridal Veil Falls.

How does the Journey Behind the Falls experience differ between summer and winter?

From spring to fall (May–October), Journey Behind the Falls offers its complete experience. Both the lower and upper outdoor observation decks are open, allowing visitors to enjoy the full behind-the-water and beside-the-water perspectives. During these warmer months, the water flow is at its peak, creating stronger mist and more dramatic photo opportunities.

In winter (November–April), the lower observation deck closes for safety due to icy conditions, but the upper deck and all tunnel portals remain accessible. This season brings its own charm, with breathtaking ice formations surrounding Horseshoe Falls and mist that freezes into a sparkling, snowy scene.

What are the operating hours for Cave of the Winds throughout the year?

Cave of the Winds is open daily, with extended hours during the peak summer season and shorter days in winter. In summer (July–August), the attraction typically runs from morning until early evening, giving you plenty of time to explore the walkways and decks.

As fall approaches, hours gradually shorten, and in winter (November–April), closing times are earlier due to reduced daylight and colder conditions. Even in the off-season, you can still descend into the gorge to enjoy the winter viewing platform.

What are the operating hours for Journey Behind the Falls in different seasons?

Journey Behind the Falls opens for the season in May and operates year-round. Weekend hours are typically 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while weekdays run from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Be sure to check the latest schedule before your visit. Check the latest operating hours here.

How much does it cost to visit Cave of the Winds?

Adults (13+):

Around $23 USD (spring–fall peak season pricing can be higher. From October 20, 2025, the rates will come back to $14 USD).

Youth (6–12):

Around $19 USD ($10 USD in off season).

Ages 5 & under:

Free admission.

What is the ticket price for Journey Behind the Falls, and what benefits come with it?

Adults (13+) :

Around $25 CAD.

Children (3–12) :

Around $16.50 CAD.

Ages 2 & under:

Free admission.

How accessible is Cave of the Winds for visitors with mobility concerns?

Elevator Access:

Visitors take an elevator down 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge.

Walkway Conditions:

The red wooden walkways and decks are open-air, can be slippery, and may involve slight inclines or ramps. They are not fully wheelchair-accessible.

Crowd Movement:

Narrow walkways can make maneuvering mobility devices challenging during peak season.

Winter Season:

In the off-season, only the lower viewing platform is available, which has fewer accessibility barriers than the summer decks.

What accessibility features does Journey Behind the Falls offer for visitors with mobility needs?

Elevator Access:

Fully accessible elevators take visitors 125 feet down into the tunnel system.

Indoor & Outdoor Areas:

The tunnel floors are flat and wide, making them wheelchair-friendly. The upper outdoor deck is also accessible, though it may be slick in misty or icy conditions.

Lower Deck Access:

The lower observation deck is not open in winter but is accessible in summer via ramps.

Located inside the Table Rock Centre, so accessible washrooms, restaurants, and shops are close by.

Which Falls’ View Each Provides?

At Cave of the Winds, you’ll get the opportunity to get up & close to Bridal Veil Falls, at a mere distance of only 20 feet!

Journey Behind the Falls will take you as close as possible to the iconic Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

Where Will I be Provided FREE Poncho & Sandals?

Both, Cave of the Winds & Journey Behind the Falls, provide a FREE poncho and sandals (in Spring & Summer months) to keep you from getting wet as you enjoy your close encounter with the Falls.

How Much Time is Required to Explore Each?

Cave of the Winds visits may last from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

A tour through Journey Behind the Falls takes an average time of 30-45 minutes.