In 1848 Niagara Falls was so cool it actually stopped flowing

Photo courtesy of Niagara Falls Tourism.

Niagara Falls, Ontario - A million bathtubs of water tumble over Niagara Falls every second, but on Easter Sunday in 1848 an ice jam upriver was able able to halt the cascading water for several hours. A few brave (or foolish) people were able to take advantage of the unusual situation to search the exposed riverbed for artifacts. Although you can't cruise to the mist at the foot of the falls in the winter months, visitors miss the crowds, prices are competitive, and the scenery is still spectacular. Icicles formed by freezing moisture cling to rockfaces and railings, and the rainbow-coloured evening illumination of the Falls reflects off of great chunks of ice and snow at the foot of the Falls. Niagara Falls presents its annual Festival of Lights from November through January.

Where: The view of the Falls is best from the Canadian side. You can reach the this side of the Falls from Buffalo by crossing the Peace Bridge at Fort Erie and then driving north for 20 minutes. Another popular entry point is from Niagara Fall NY, which has crossing the Rainbow Bridge. This leads right into the heart of town. There is scenic drive and a recreational trail which stretches for 56 km (35 miles) from Fort Erie, past the Falls and to Fort George, which is just outside Niagara-on-the-Lake. The route features parkland and historic sites. Niagara Falls is a 90-minute drive from Toronto. Using this route you'll pass through the Niagara region, which is known for having more than 60 wineries. Many are open to the public tour tours and tastings, some feature restaurants. Quick Tips: Because of traffic for the casino opposite the Rainbow Bridge, it may be faster to cross from the U.S. at the Peace Bridge.

More Southwestern Ontario 'Cool': 10,000 butterflies l invention of the Blackberry l Napoleon's brother's honeymoon l North America's first oil well l Icewine l Uncle Tom's Cabin l The Tipping Point l world's most lilacs l world's first long distance phone call l Hockey Legend Wayne Gretzky l home of the Blackberry l one of North America's largest POW WOW's l world's largest single day maple syrup festival l Johnny Cash proposal

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