Luna Island

Luna Island. . Located between the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, this island was named in the 19th century for the beautiful moonlit rainbows visitors could see here on nights when the moon is full or near full. Caused by the mist from the falls, these lunar bows are rarely visible today because of the decrease in the water's flow and the presence of artificial lights. , Luna Island was once covered with white cedar trees, which were able to withstand harsh winter conditions. In the summer, these trees were filled with the nests of bald eagles and cedar waxwings. Throughout the years, the trees have disappeared because of natural erosion and human activity. , The Luna Island/Bridal Veil Falls Viewing Area was closed in 1954-55 to remove a rock overhang, and again in 1970-72 to stabliize the area. During this period, the Bridal Veil Falls was dewatered, holes were drilled in the island's rock base to relieve water presure, and giant rock bolts, rock dowels, and cable tendons were installed to prevent the occurence of rockfalls. Today, Luna Island provides the closest and most dramatic setting from which visitors can safely view the American Falls. , Luna Island Bridge by George Curtis, ca. 1895. Courtesy of Rare Book Room, Buffalo and Erie County Public Library, Buffalo, NY. , Ice and snow grip Luna Island and the Bridal Veil Falls in their winter splendor. , Engraving of Luna Island, 1882. Image courtesy of Niagara Falls Public Library. , Preparation for drilling of rock bolt holes on Bridal Veil Falls channel. , Cable tendon. Rock dowel. Rock bolt.