Niagara Falls Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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What are the rock layers that make up Niagara Falls?   (Back to the list of questions).

The layers of rock that comprise the Niagara Gorge at the point of the falls are integral to sustaining a waterfall on the Niagara River. There are several layers of different compositions, colors and hardness; but the bottom line is: the hard, erosion-resistant layer on top and the softer, wear-easy layers on the bottom are what create the falls. As water eats away at the soft rock layers, the tougher cap-rock creates a dramatic overhang for water to plummet from.

The rock layers (strata) in this region are all sedimentary rock; rock that was formed by the accumulation and compression of particulates such as sand, silt or minerals. Most of the rock layers of the Niagara Escarpment, over which Niagara Falls plummets, were formed by shallow oceans that once covered the region.

Sedimentary rock types
Although there are numerous rock layers making up Niagara Falls, they are all variations of just a few types of rock.

Dolomite (dolostone) - A hard rock made of calcium magnesium carbonate (CaMg(CO₃)₂. Due to its tough crystalline structure, the erosive power of water barely has an effect on it. 

Limestone - A rock made primarily of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Limestone was formed from prehistoric marine organisms’ shells or coral structures. It dissolves relatively easily in acidic solutions, often forming caves.

Sandstone - A rock formed from compressed sand (usually quartz and/or feldspar). Generally uniform in color and texture and resistant to weathering.

Shale (mudstone) - A soft, thin rock formed from compressed mud, clay or silt. Shale is fragile, often splintering into thin irregular sheets. It dissolves easily in water, forming mud or clay.

Lockport Dolomite The caprock of Niagara Falls Hardness: very hard Color: gray	-
Rochester Shale Hardness: very soft Color: dark gray	-
Irondequoit and Reynales Limestone	-
Neagha Shale (top) / Thorold Sandstone (water level)	-
Medina (Grimsby) Sandstone Color: red	-
Power Glen Shale Color: dark gray	-
Whirlpool Sandstone  (white)	-
Queentson Shale Hardness: very soft Color: red	-

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How fast does water fall down Niagara Falls?  (Back to the list of questions).

Water plummets down the falls at speeds up to 68 miles per hour. This is the fastest water will travel while in the Niagara River. Water in the rapids above the falls will reach 25 mph. At the Whirlpool, water will reach 35 mph. At Devil's Hole, the water reaches 22 mph.

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Can I bring my dog/cat across the border?  (Back to the list of questions).

Click here to find out what humans must bring to cross the border.

Yes, you can bring your pets (dogs or cats) across the border into Canada. Pets older than 3 months will need proof of rabies vaccination signed by a vet and clearly identifying the animal. The vaccination must have occurred in the last 3 years. Pets under 3 months do not need proof of inoculation. All pets crossing the border must be in good health.
Here are the official rules for the Canadian border (going into Canada)

Yes, you can bring your pets (dogs or cats) across the border into the United States. Pets older than 3 months will need proof of rabies vaccination signed by a vet and clearly identifying the animal. If the certificate has no expiration date, the vaccination date must be within one year. If the vaccination occurred within 30 days of the border crossing date, confinement regulations may apply. All pets crossing the border must be in good health.
Here are the official rules for the United States border (going into the US)

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