Cave of the Winds

Bohao Zhao, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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Cave of the Winds

Reached from Goat Island in the state park, this attraction takes visitors deep into the gorge by elevator, where redwood boardwalks step down toward the base of the Bridal Veil Falls. The highlight is the Hurricane Deck, a platform positioned so close to the falling water that guests are drenched in the wind and spray, with ponchos provided; bring footwear that can get wet.

A companion pavilion tells the story of the site and its natural history. Now operating year-round, with a winter version of the walk when the lower decks are removed, it ranks among the most immersive ways to encounter the falls on the American side.

Tickets and October 2026 closure

Cave of the Winds is closed October 19 and 20, 2026 for maintenance. The posted rate is USD $23 adult/$19 youth through October 18. The off-peak schedule lists $14/$10 for October 19–March 31, 2027, but the maintenance dates are not operating days. Tickets are timed and sold in person at Cave of the Winds or the park’s Welcome Center, not online.

What to bring and where to park

Bring footwear that can get wet; sandals are no longer supplied. The summer wooden decks and winter Gorge Trip are different experiences, and access changes with conditions. The main viewing platform is accessible; the wooden decks involve stairs. Lot 2 on Goat Island is the designated parking lot for this attraction. Check daily last-ticket times and holiday closures before travelling.

Visitor details checked October 7, 2026. Sources: official visitor page; official planning source 2. Recheck date-specific availability before travelling.

Family friendlyAccessible
Hours
Check the date-specific last-ticket time; timed tickets are sold in person. October 19–20, 2026: closed.
Price
Moderate
Parking
State park parking lots on Goat Island nearby (Lot 2 at 15 Goat Island Loop Road is the designated Cave of the Winds lot)
Accessibility
Accessible access to the main viewing platform; wooden decks and Hurricane Deck involve stairs.
Seasonal
Year-round with a reduced winter Gorge Trip. Closed October 19–20, 2026 for maintenance; check holiday closures and weather restrictions.
Phone
(716) 278-1794

Verified October 2026

Good to know

Is Cave of the Winds wheelchair accessible?

Accessible access to the main viewing platform; wooden decks and Hurricane Deck involve stairs.

Is Cave of the Winds free to visit?

No — Cave of the Winds charges admission.

Is there parking at Cave of the Winds?

State park parking lots on Goat Island nearby (Lot 2 at 15 Goat Island Loop Road is the designated Cave of the Winds lot).

Is Cave of the Winds good for kids?

Yes — Cave of the Winds is family-friendly.

What are the hours at Cave of the Winds?

Check the date-specific last-ticket time; timed tickets are sold in person. October 19–20, 2026: closed. Always confirm current hours before visiting.

Places nearby: USA

Distances are measured in a straight line, not along walking or driving routes. Check the route before setting out.

Across the border: Canada

These places require an international border crossing. Straight-line distances do not include the journey to a bridge, the crossing, or any wait. Check your route and border entry requirements before planning a visit.

Plan your visit

Upcoming events in this area

Fri, Dec 4, 2026

Jingle Falls USA

Niagara Falls · USA

Holiday activities in downtown Niagara Falls, New York, December 4–6, 2026, centred on Old Falls Street. Check the programme for individual hours and prices.

Check the programme for each activity’s price and booking requirements.