Niagara Falls was formed more than 12,000 years ago at the end of the Ice Age. Large torrents of water were released from the melting ice, draining into the Niagara River. The water plunged over the edge of the Niagara. The force of the water eventually wore away the rock layers and Niagara Falls moved upstream, reaching its present location. 

 

The formation continues year after year, with the annual freezing and thawing of the Niagara River and the gradual erosion and periodic rock-falls. Remedial work has been completed to preserve the Falls and the volume of water has been reduced by diversion for hydroelectric power.

 

Although Native Americans in the region were most likely the first people to behold the power of Niagara Falls,. Niagara Falls was discovered by French explorer Father Louis Hennepin in December 1678. 

 

The region soon became a French stronghold, as forts were built at the mouth of the Niagara River, controlling access to the Great Lakes. The fort was restored between 1926 and 1934 and is now known as Old Fort Niagara.