Seeing in the Dark
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
A magical night hike in a place where it truly gets dark
Explore the night in a place where it truly gets dark. Learn tips and tricks for using your senses to peek under the cover of night. A symphony of owls, loons and toads accompanies you on this one-of-a-kind journey into the vibrant nocturnal world.
After a contemplative sunset on the beach at Warren Lake, learn how wildlife has adapted to be active at dusk and during the night. Darkness falls and your eyes adjust to the lowering light as you walk along the Warren Lake trail. Stopping at several points along the way, your guide describes the ways in which nocturnal animals have adapted and gives tips on how we can mimic them to navigate better at night.
In the full darkness of the forest, take a moment to meditate on the experience before completing your journey. Enjoy a local treat upon your return to the trailhead and reflect on your experience and the new connections you have made with nature.
Dates
July 1 to September 2, 2026
Wednesdays
8:30 pm
July 1, 8, 15, & 22, 2026
8 pm
August 5, & 12, 2026
7:30 pm
August 19, 26, & September 2, 2026
Each tour lasts 2.5 - 3 hours
Registration required.
Price
See price.
Details
This hike is recommended for participants 12 years of age or older.
There is a maximum of 15 participants per program.
The program will take place in most weather conditions, as long as participants wish to attend; however, in the case of lightning, the hike will be cancelled.
We love dogs, but unfortunately, they are not permitted on this program.
Meet at the Warren Lake Day Use Area. Dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared to apply insect repellant.
Leave your lights and activity trackers behind and be prepared to power down your phones.
Night vision takes a long time to develop and can be destroyed with one flash of light.
Sturdy shoes are recommended and walking sticks are welcome.
Reserve
Registration is required, and space is limited.
By telephone: 1-877-737-3783
Outside North America: 1-519-826-5391
Online: making a reservation in advance.
Special Notes:- Trail has a relatively easy degree of difficulty, making it accessible to most visitors
- Weather conditions are variable, though guides will go out in most weather if visitor safety is assured
- This hike is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. The hike is approximately 4.7 km return.
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