The spectacular Niagara Falls, located on the border of the United States and Canada, has always attracted throngs of tourists from around the world. Known for its immense beauty, powerful cascades and rainbows arcing across the falls, Niagara also hides some of the weirdest, quirky and downright fascinating stories that add to its allure. Here are a few:
1. Man Survives a Plunge, Then Returns: Perhaps the most unbelievable story associated with the falls is that of Kirk Jones, who not only survived an unprotected plunge down the Horseshoe Falls in 2003, but returned again 14 years later for another attempt. The second venture, sadly, cost him his life.
2. Going Over in a Barrel: In 1901, 63-year-old Annie Edson Taylor decided to become the first person to ride over Niagara Falls in a barrel. Her hope was to gain fame and fortune, but instead, she spent her last years making a modest living by posing for photos and selling souvenirs.
3. Niagara Falls Runs Dry: In 1969, the American side of the Falls was 'turned off' for a few months for a geological study. Imagine visiting this legendary site and being greeted with a view of empty, dry rocks!
4. Ice Bridge Tragedy: During the winters, extreme cold causes an ice bridge to form at the base of the falls. In 1912, three tourists were killed when the bridge collapsed as they were standing on it. After this incident, it is now illegal to walk on the ice bridge.
5. Tightrope Walker Surprises Everyone: Nik Wallenda surprised the world in 2012 by tightrope-walking across Niagara Falls. However, it wasn’t a total surprise as he spent two years getting permissions and waivers to do this feat.
6. The Human Magnet: Another story that sounds too strange to be true is that of Angel Magnetic, the Human Magnet. He boasted of being so magnetic that he could hold on to a metallic bar in front of Niagara Falls without slipping.
7. Mysterious Fossil Waterfalls: The falls aren't just home to water, but also to ancient fossils. From time to time, people discover remnants of ancient sea creatures on the river bed.
Niagara Falls never cease to astonish with their breathtaking vistas and captivating stories. With their awe-inspiring tales of daredevils, ancient creatures, and unexpected events, they stand as an icon of both natural beauty and human audacity.