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Over the last year, my husband and I have made it a point to live more intentionally. We left our jobs, traveled across the country and even lived on a boat in California for a couple of months. It was quiet the adventure and a very eye-opening experience for us.
During this time, we learned that the most important thing to us was being able to spend time together and make new memories, including traveling and exploring the outdoors more. We wanted to go forward living a purposeful life, filled with everyday joys and following our passions.
Ultimately, this meant moving right back to the town we left, but in a much better situation where we could follow through with that intentional lifestyle.
This past weekend was just that for us. We took advantage of my husband having a day off thanks to the OSU football off week, and turned it into a fun little adventure! We decided to make the journey to Niagara Falls, New York! I had never been there and I was really excited for us to be able to visit together – including the dogs, of course!
A quick five-hour, one-way drive brought us to Niagara Falls State Park, which is super dog friendly! This park is filled with hiking trails and viewing areas, so there is plenty to do with your pup!
There is no entrance fee, but there is a small fee to park. If you don’t have pets along for the ride, there are plenty of activities for you check out, including the Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, trolley tours, observation tower and more.
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We started our day at Prospect Point, where we got our first glimpse of the American Falls. It was breathtaking! From there, we strolled along the rapids and took the pedestrian bridge over to Goat Island.
As you walk around the island, you will find multiple viewing areas for all three waterfalls, as well as the rapids. There are also lots of trails and green space for your pup to enjoy, too! Once you make it to Terrapin Point – the Horseshoe Falls viewing area – be prepared to get wet! Watch in awe as the water rushes straight down with only a small barrier separating you from the raging waters. It was simply amazing! My favorite part was all of the rainbows that were created in the mist.
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After checking out the falls, we hopped back in the car and drove about five minutes up the road to Whirlpool State Park. There is no entrance or parking fee here.
This park was enchanting and much more relaxing, as there was very few people here. Beginning at the main scenic overlook, we viewed the whirlpool and rapids, though I was disappointed to see the whirlpool was not the massive vortex I expected.
We then hiked along the Niagara Gorge Rim Trail, giving us amazing views into the gorge below. It was absolutely captivating! Lucky for us, the trees were all starting to burst into beautiful orange and red colors and the water was a gorgeous turquoise color, too. It really was the perfect fall trip!
We had the best time exploring the parks and, after six hours, we were beat! Living intentionally has really allowed us to see the country and make great memories, and we can’t wait for our next adventure!
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