Torrance Barrens (Hiking / Activities / Camping)
The Barrens' is known for its natural features. The 4,700 acres of beautiful land is home to beautiful wildlife, landscapes and a field of possibilities for you to enjoy. The Park is known for being a "Dark Sky Reserve", which means a spectacular 360 degree view of the night sky, unhampered by light pollution, so that the stars can be observed and admired! What is less known is that the Barrens has incredible hiking and mountain bike trails and is great for camping. Camping offers the benefit of being able to enjoy it all: hiking during the day and watching the stars at night!
The parking lot is located along Southwood road (District Road 13). It's easy to find and only 30 minutes from the Muskoka Store following Frank Miller Memorial Rte until Southwood Rd/Muskoka District Road 13 in Torrance.
Park Policy:
Torrance Barrens has a few rules for camping and fires:
- Visitors are permitted to hike to a designated campsite to pitch a tent and stay overnight at the Torrance Barrens.
- The designated campsites are backcountry sites. Visitors must carry in all supplies (e.g. water, food, shelter) and carry out all garbage.
- There are six designated campsites.
Hiking:
Torrance Barrens has four available trails. The main trail is approximately 3km and is marked by blue ribbons with little shade through wetlands. It is relatively flat, but the open space provides excellent views, and the informative panels along the route help appreciate the geology and wildlife of the area.
Now the Extension Trail is considered an easy route, and it takes an average of one and a half hours to complete. This trail is great for hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing. This trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit any time of the year.
The Barrens long trail takes an average of 42 min to complete. This trail is famous for bird watching, cross-country skiing, and hiking. Lastly, the Pine Ridge Trail is an easy route, open year-round, and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
What to bring:
The best option for Torrance Barrens is to spend the night camping in one of the designated areas because the night sky view is absolutely worth seeing.
Things that you will need:
- Tents
- Food and water
- Blankets
- Camping Chairs
- Lanterns
- Bug Spray Repellent
The Muskoka Store's got you covered when it comes to all of these essentials! Check our camping collection: https://themuskokastore.com/collections/camping-gear
So don't miss out on this incredible experience to get to know Torrance Barrens. Enjoy every single possibility of fun that this place allows you to have.
Prepare yourself with high-quality equipment; make sure to visit us here at The Muskoka Store, at 2266 Highway 11 North, Gravenhurst, or access our website https://themuskokastore.com/