Niagara Falls and New York state hiking

[pipester]

Hi everyone.
I have a couple of queries please. Firstly we are visiting Niagara Falls early next month. We have hired a car in USA but we are staying at accomodation on the Canadian side of the Falls. Can we just take the US hire car over into Canada or do we need to let the hire car firm know that we intend to do so? Also are there any problems with the customs on either side and are there any tips for avoiding potential problems either way?
Secondly we are going to Finger Lakes on the way back from the Falls to Boston and staying for a few days to do some walking there. Is there any issue with taking our UK walking gear with us, particularly boots which may have soil residue on them? I know how careful you have to be with US customs.

Any useful tips/ideas/suggestions would be most welcome.

Thanks

Pipester

[KJN]

Just come back from Canada, you need to inform the Car hire Company,with regards border crossing, I take it that you are flying into the USA, then you will obtain the visa on your entry, when you enter Canada you will be asked questions and maybe have to enter the passport control office to inform further information.be prepared to give your self enough time when crossing borders as it can take quiet a long time, we went Canada to USA and waited 45 minutes to obtain Visa. And that's pretty good as time goes for a border crossing. With regards tips for the crossing of the borders the only one I can give is be patient tell the truth .dont argue withe the guys and be polite at all times, it works this way. Re walking shoes make sure they are clean and put them in a bag in the boot of the car, this will ot be an issue. As stated his info is based on the fact that you are flying to the States to start your vacation.