Frozen Niagara Falls

The deep freeze we’ve been experiencing has turned Niagara Falls into an icy winter wonderland and despite the frigid temperatures, it’s drawing tourists, as well as world-wide attention.

The massive icicles and miniature glaciers forming on and below Niagara Falls is an awe-inspiring site.

It’s also prompting locals to rediscover what’s already in their own backyard.

Connie Groves lives in Vineland and has been to the falls countless times, but says she’s never seen it like this before..

Niagara Parks Commission, Janice Thomson says the last time they saw a winter tourism boom like this was 3 years ago during a Polar Vortex.

“We know that they’re technically not really frozen, but all of the surfaces around certainly are. There’s beautiful ice formations at the base of the falls, we’re also seeing the ice bridge forming.” says Thomson.

And dealing with all of that ice is a job only an ice breaker can handle. The “Niagara Queen” can be found on the Niagara River, breaking up ice and pushing it over the falls.

Ontario Power Generation, Gerry Foote says, “If we don’t do that it tends to pile up in front of the intakes, and of course cuts back on our water that’s available for generation.”

And while the increase in ice may mean more work for the “Niagara Queen,” it also means an incredible spectacle for anyone who is lucky enough to lay eyes on it.