Where the Niagara River makes a 90° turn, a Whirlpool has formed. The Whirlpool has a depth of 38 m or 120 ft. As with all whirlpools, the water circulates in a counterclockwise direction.
However, when water levels are lowered by diversion of the river to the hydro-electric dams, the Whirlpool starts to move in a clockwise direction.
For this time period, the Niagara Whirlpool isn't technically a Whirlpool. This phenomenon takes place from about November 1 to April 1. For a view from above, ride the aerocar, a cable car suspended over the Falls and Whirlpool. Built by Spanish engineers in 1816, this ride will take your breath away.
