New access created to the Niagara Gorge, old Schoellkopf Power Plant site

7/24/15

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WKBW) – There is new access to the Niagara Gorge, the area where the Maid of the Mist stores its boats in the winter and the old Schoellkopf Power Plant site.

An elevator, that once was a part of the power plant, has been restored. It has recently opened to the public in order to give visitors a unique view at the Niagara Falls State Park.

The power plant was destroyed when it collapsed in 1956.

When the Maid of the Mist decided to invest $40 million into the creation of a storage site, it also invested money into restoring the original elevator shaft.

The State Parks Department is also investing into developing the site, giving visitors a unique opportunity at this part of the Gorge.

The area can also be used by hikers to get to the Whirlpool or Devil’s Hole State Park.

Previously, the site was only accessible to those who were able to hike from downstream.

The site is accessible near the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center at 200 Robert Moses Parkway N., Niagara Falls.

Upper Lobby doors are open daily from 7:30-5p.m. That includes access to the elevator.

The Lower Lobby doors are open daily from 7:30a.m.-8:45p.m., giving hikers access to the gorge. Those hours will change on August 9 due to shorter daylight hours.