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Whirlpool State Park, located in the Niagara Region, has two levels - the street level has many scenic overlooks with spectacular views of the Whirlpool and rapids. There are picnic facilities and a playground, as well as the gorge natural history room at the restroom building; both are open seasonally. The river level offers hiking and fishing by taking the staircase located just downstream from the main park area. At the base of the gorge, you can hike upstream along the Whirlpool Rapids Trail past the Whirlpool to a point along the Whirlpool Rapids. You can return to this staircase to exit the gorge, or take the Devil's Hole Trail downstream to the Devil's Hole staircase to the top of the gorge at Devil's Hole State Park. From there, you can take the rim trail back to Whirlpool State Park.
Location: The Niagara Whirlpool, with its 125 ft. (38 m) deep swirling waters is the result of the dramatic turn in the Niagara River's flow (nearly 90 degrees), as the river changes to follow an ancient glacial debris-filled valley (St. David's Gorge). As the Niagara River formed and the falls receded upstream cutting out a new gorge, it crossed this buried valley, quickly cutting away the soft dirt and stone filling. The point at which the falls met the old valley became the Whirlpool, and the falls followed the old gorge upstream.
Nearby: Devil's Hole State Park
Pet Policy Dogs on a leash - not exceeding six feet in length. Not permitted in buildings, camping, bathing, and picnic areas except where needed as a seeing eye, guide dog (service dog). Proof of license, tags, and a valid rabies vaccination must be demonstrated. Please Note: Pets are not permitted at any facility in the Long Island Region.