The American Falls, second largest of the three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and immense power. However, it is also known to be extremely dangerous, which raises the question: why do daredevils steer clear of the American Falls?
One of the main factors contributing to its perilous nature is the sheer volume of water that plunges down every second. With a flow rate of approximately 150,000 gallons per second, the resulting current is incredibly strong and would pose a significant risk to any daredevil attempting to navigate it. Furthermore, the intense mist and gusts of wind generated by the cascading water create challenging conditions for visibility and stability. However, the biggest reason daredevils stay away are the abundance of jagged rocks at the base of the falls making survival almost impossible.
What makes the American Falls off-limits are the presence of a substantial talus pile at its base. Over time, fallen rocks have accumulated forming a mound that would be the landing point for anyone attempting to leap over the falls. Unlike the Horseshoe Falls where the plunge would lead to deep water, jumping over the American Falls would mean landing on a heap of sharp, broken rocks. This geological feature significantly increases the risk and reduces the chances of survival (to about 0%).
Due to these dangers, there have been far fewer daredevil attempts at the American Falls compared to the more famous Horseshoe Falls. In fact, such endeavors are illegal and carry severe penalties including hefty fines and potential imprisonment, serving as additional deterrents.
Throughout recorded history, no one has survived intentionally or accidentally plunging over the American Falls, with only one daredevil brave enough to make the attempt. Kirk Jones, who had previously survived going over the Horseshoe Falls without protection in 2003, tried to conquer the American Falls on April 19th, 2017, using an inflatable ball. The ball could be seen spinning along the rapids in the upper river before plummeting over the falls. Tragically, Jones lost his life in the endeavor.
The deadly combination of the immense force of nature, challenging geographical terrain, and strict law enforcement make the American Falls a tantalizing yet perilous spectacle, far from being a playground for daredevils.