Terrapin Point

Terrapin Point offers one of the most spectacular views of Horseshoe Falls from the U.S. side. Standing right at the edge, you can feel the mist on your face and hear the thunder of the water as it crashes down into the gorge—truly an unforgettable experience. The walking paths are well-maintained, and there are railings for safety, so you can enjoy the view without worry. We visited around sunset, and the lighting over the falls was magical. You also get great photo opportunities with the Canadian skyline in the background. It’s a short and scenic walk from the parking area on Goat Island, and best of all—it’s completely free with entry to the state park. Highly recommended if you’re visiting Niagara Falls. Terrapin Point is a must-stop for the most up-close and powerful U.S. view of the Falls.

Nice place at the Falls. The same point on the Canadian side is better.

I was at the falls in February (off season) but trust me it was so pretty. I have never witnessed something like this in my life. Visit it in any season.

One of the most beautiful spots in America. I was married here. The marriage didn't last but the views sure do. Best spot at the falls on the American side.

I really enjoyed the view. One of amazing things i have ever seen. Its huge and lovely. You should visit. They said canadian side better

The best observation point in entire Niagara Falls state park, in my opinion. Maid of the mist is an experience and not an observation point. Don’t take me wrong, maid of the mist is most probably the best in Niagara Falls NY but from observation point perspective, Terrapin point stands out among all.

Got a great view of the falls here. I’d say this was my favorite overlook on the US side! You can see a lot of the mist and get really close to the rushing water.

Best shots taken early morning at 5AM. After that it keeps getting crazy here. Too much crowded. However mornings are full of mist so photography is difficult. The mist settle as the day passes.

Terrapin Point is the closest and best viewpoint of Horseshoe Falls on the US side and is located on Goat Island, just a quick walk away from the second parking lot. At Terrapin Point, you can see the mist coming off Niagara Falls. However, you can feel light water sprays in the parking lot even before getting to the falls.   At one point in the 1800s, Terrapin Point was a group of large boulders on the brink of the falls, separate from Goat Island. The rocks looked like tortoises so they gained the name Terrapin Rocks. In the 1950s, when work was done to spread the flow of Horseshoe Falls more evenly, some of the rock was filled in to create a more stable viewing platform. the closest you can be to the crest of the horseshoe falls, at least on the American side. Horseshoe Falls drops about 167 feet to the river below. Mist often shrouds Terrapin Point as the churning water kicks up spray into the sky.

Such a pretty view from the NY side. I never understood why people didn't like the NY side. It's still a beautiful experience, just a different point of view.