Prepare to be starstruck at Torrance Barrens, a conservation area and dark sky viewing reserve on 1,906 hectares of crown land (government-owned land) west of Gravenhurst.
Witness the vibrant, panoramic display of stars, planets and constellations dramatically come to life in this area, which is protected from artificial light pollution. The open landscapes provide wonderful, unobstructed viewing opportunities.
The night skies are so clear that you can see a spectacle with your naked eye. However, zooming in with the right gear will reveal a breathtakingly detailed cosmos overhead.
Start and finish in the same spot anywhere on this Figure 8. This creates 2 loops using the Torrance Barrens loop and also the Torrance Barrens extension loop. There is a section of the Torrance Barrens trail you will have to complete twice. Both loops are blazed and both intersections are marked.
Navigation can be a bit tricky, so completing the loop before attempting is a good idea. No major climbs, but enough roots and rocks to keep you engaged. Spring/summer could certainly be wet and buggy. Enjoy!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torrance_Barrens
https://www.destinationontario.com/en-ca/attractions/torrance-barrens
https://www.torrancebarrens.com/hiking
https://www.todocanada.ca/torrance-barrens-head-to-this-dark-sky-preserve-to-stargaze-hike-and-camp/
