• Distance: 2.4 - 5.0 mile loop

• Trail rating: moderate - difficult

• Elevation gain: 410 feet

The Devils Hole trail is a fun riverside gorge hike that features a well maintained path and several stone staircases that are sure to get your heart pumping.

To start the hike, follow a series of more than 500 stairs down to the bank of the Niagara River. To make it a loop, take a left at the bottom of the stairs and follow the path along the river to the second set of stairs. These stairs lead back up to the Robert Moses Recreation Trail. Turn left and follow this paved pathway along the top of the gorge back to the parking lot.

Combine this hike with a side trip down to the whirlpool (5.0 miles RT), where you'll find class 5 rapids, a small cave, and some flat rocky outcroppings to relax on.

For some peace and quiet, try visiting during off-peak hours - Devils Hole State Park is typically less crowded from May to October.

Note: This part of the Niagara River is a popular place to fish, but under no circumstances can you swim here! And don't attempt this hike without microspikes in the winter due to ice. Here's a list of the best microspikes for hiking in snow and ice.