Torrance Barrens
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.
Torrance Barrens | Destination Ontario
How to get to Torrance Barrens
Location: Southwood Road, Gravenhurst
By car: The Torrance Barrens parking lot is located along Southwood Road (District Road 13). Find detailed directions and parking information on the Torrance Barrens website.
By transit: The Ontario Northland bus provides regular service to Gravenhurst. From there, take a local taxi to Torrance Barrens.
Know before you go
Hiking trails are accessible from the parking lot, and there is no admission fee to enter the park.
For optimum viewing, check weather reports and sky forecasts before you visit.
While stargazing, minimize your usage of flashlights and phone lights to limit light pollution and let your eyes adjust. Keep noise levels at a minimum and do not leave anything behind, including litter and garbage.
Things to do at Torrance Barrens
Discover more activities and experiences.
See the stars
Catch the celestial show through binoculars or a telescope at the main dark sky viewing area. The smooth granite bedrock in this area allows for easy setup of telescopes or other gear.
Go for a hike
Stroll along two main hiking trails in Torrance Barrens: the three-kilometre Main Trail around the shallow Highland Pond and the more difficult, five-kilometre Pine Ridge Trail.
Explore the outdoors
Participate in various outdoor activities throughout the year. Choose from mountain biking and blueberry picking in the summer or snowmobiling and nature photography in the winter.
Spot wildlife
Look out for beavers or graceful white-tailed deer, two of the many wildlife species that call Torrance Barrens home. Over 90 bird species have also been spotted in the reserve.
Camp under the stars
Pitch a tent and stay overnight in one of the six accessible backcountry campsites. Camping is free but the six designated sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Interesting facts about Torrance Barrens
The gorgeous landscapes of Torrance Barrens were formed over two billion years ago. These landscapes consist of Precambrian bedrock, wetlands and low growing trees and plants. It was deemed a conservation area in 1997 for its unique terrain, and in 1999 it was designated the world’s first permanent dark sky preserve, thanks to its total absence of artificial light.
Astro-photographers have captured dramatic pictures of the Milky Way, dazzling displays of meteor showers and the northern lights dancing across the sky.
Last updated: April 26, 2024