Categories: Travel

There’s a torch-lit hike experience near Toronto in an Ontario park

Photo via @SibbaldPointPP on X

Sibbald Point Provincial Park is a hidden winter wonderland just an hour’s drive north of Toronto. And just in time for the recent snowfall, it has brought back its torch-lit hikes for the season.

Nestled on the south shores of Lake Simcoe, this park is a peaceful place to spend an afternoon hiking and enjoying a few winter activities.

Introduced in 2023, the park launched its torch-lit hikes this month, offering guided adventures lit only by fire and the night sky.

What are the torch-lit hikes?

“We’re excited to be offering torch-lit hikes again this winter,” shares the park on its official site.

This journey takes place along the Maidenhair Fern Trail. It’ll take you about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on how quickly you venture through.

“Hike between the hours of 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. on your own or join a guided hike led by Sibbald Point’s Discovery team that will meet at the trailhead,” adds the site.

When do they take place?

Guided hikes start at 7 p.m. on select days. Since the torch-lit hikes have already begun, here’s the rest of the schedule for the winter season:

Dec. 19, 20, 2025
Jan. 1, 2, 3, 16, 17, 2026
Feb. 14 and 15, 2026

“We recommend bringing your own snowshoes, they are optional depending on the amount of snowfall,” shares Ontario Parks.

Reservations

Now you’re ready to hit the road and explore Sibbald Point Provincial Park. You need to purchase a daily vehicle permit. These can be bought online up to five days in advance.

Since there is a separate reservation for the Fire and Stars Hikes, be sure you select the “Day Use + Fire and Stars” option when purchasing. It costs $21 + tax to enjoy.

All that’s left for you is to plan whether you’re going before or after the holidays.

Have fun!