Did you know that just a couple of hours north of Toronto in Gravenhurst, Ontario, is the world’s first permanently designated Dark Sky Reserve? Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve is in the heart of town, and it’s open year-round for spectators to get clear views of planets and constellations.

Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve in Gravenhurst, Ontario

According to Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve, “If you are travelling north on Highway 11, there is an access point to District Road 13/the Southwood road between Gravenhurst and Washago.”

From there, you will turn west and drive about 20 minutes until you see the Torrance Barrens sign on your right.

Pack your car and get ready for a cosmic adventure. The preserve is “a uniquely accessible place to view the night sky in its pristine state.” The main dark sky viewing area is along a smooth granite outcrop. The spot is behind the Ministry sign on Southwood Road. For a “fully unobstructed 360-degree panorama,” visitors can walk along the main trail, across the boardwalk and up the first ridge. The paths are marked, making navigation easy!

The entire preserve spans a whopping 5,000 acres so there are plenty of areas to set up for the evening. Entry is free, too.

Other things to do in Gravenhurst, Ontario

If you’re visiting Gravenhurst in the winter, the Gravenhurst Winter Carnival is a must.

The Carnival is running from Feb. 14 to 17, 2025, a family-friendly event offering a demo derby, a polar dip, snow sculptures, food trucks, live entertainment, and fun games. 

Entry is $10 for those 13 and older and $5 for children ages six to 12.


End your day in Gravenhurst, Ontario, at a local favourite spot, Sawdust City Brewing Company. Try one of the local brews such as Lone Pine West Coast IPA, X Brewers Series Grisette, Peavey Hook Helles Lager, Flapdoodle English Best Bitter or Pink Boots Blonde Ale with Szechuan Peppers.

There are plenty of food options too. Pick from a long list of eats including the Smash Burgers, The Reuben Sandwich, Signature Nachos, Chicken Wings, Fish and Chips, Poutine and Fish Tacos.

A fabulous day in Gravenhurst awaits.

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Taylor Lucas

Associate Editor – Taylor is a Toronto-based journalist with a passion for storytelling. Whether chasing a story, writing, or editing, she brings a creative spin to the media world and has a blast doing it. Taylor brings years of journalism experience in sports, local/national news, and entertainment. In her spare time, you can typically find Taylor trying out a new restaurant or cocktail bar, cooking, golfing or binge-watching true crime documentaries.

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