A tunnel has been cut from the cliff to the margin of the river, at an
angle of about thirty degrees, and within it is built the railway, by
the side of which is a flight of stairs, numbering 290 steps. The cars
are raised and lowered by machinery, operated by a turbine wheel, and
are so arranged that one ascends while the other descends. This railway
has been in successful operation, without a casualty, for nearly forty
years. The timid, however, to whom the descent appears perilous, have
the choice of the stairway for reaching the river, and many prefer to
trust their own limbs in the climb, but are generally glad to avail
themselves of the car in returning. At the foot of the stairs, a
commodious building has been erected, from which a view of the Falls
from below may be had through windows which protect the visitor from the
spray. A nearer view may be obtained by donning a water-proof suit, for
which facilities are provided in the dressing-rooms, and, with a trusty
guide, taking a promenade upon “Hurricane Bridge,” at the very foot of
the American Fall, completing the trip by going _behind_ the cataract
itself, which may be done in safety, and constitutes a novel experience.
The cavernous recess behind the curtain of falling water extends nearly
to the center of the Fall, and is filled with the dashing spray which
perpetually rises from the cauldron of waters. The roar of the cataract
echoes and re-echoes within this chamber, the effect being heightened by
the compression of the air; and the combined effect upon the senses as
one thus stands as it were within the very grasp of Nature’s most
powerful forces, serves to show the contrast between puny man and his
omnipotent Creator.
Between the foot of the Inclined Plane and the Canada shore, a line of
ferry boats has been established, affording a safe and pleasant method
of transit between those points, and a view of the Falls from the river
level. The best time for this trip is early in the morning or an hour
or two before sunset, and the impressions made upon the mind in
connection with it, will be among the most lasting of all the
recollections of Niagara.
Returning to the Park by the stairway or the car, as the traveler may
elect, we continue our examination of the objects of interest to be
found within its limits. Its shady groves and pleasant walks, remnants
of the natural forest improved by the hand of art, furnish delightful
resting places or promenades; and its Art Gallery, Concert Hall,
Pavilion, and other provisions for entertainment, serve to engage the
attention of the visitor, and make pleasant the hours that pass while
within the Park.