Dark Skies Activities – Canoeing / High Wire at How Stean Gorge
How Stean Gorge is proud to be hosting the ever-popular Dark Skies Activities nights again this November 2026 & Jan, Feb & March 2027. Making the most of our amazing dark skies.
We run these activity nights as a fringe activity to the main Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival.
These popular events are a unique blend of adventure, astronomy, and culinary delight, set against the breath-taking backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales. Whether you’re paddling under the stars or tackling our floodlit via ferrata, this is a night-time adventure you won’t want to miss.
Star Gazing by Canoe (however everyone must be prepared for the bad weather alternative of our amazing Via Ferrata High Wire Course)
Glide into the water and paddle your rafted canoe across Scar House Reservoir under the moon and stars, also if you arrive early you can get FREE entrance to our Gorge and Caves Visitor Attraction.
In adverse weather conditions, participants will experience the Via Ferrata High Wire Course. The course is one of only three in the UK. This only happens when it is not safe to proceed with open-water canoeing. We promise you will still have an amazing adventure whether you go canoeing or experience the Via ferrata high-wire course!
Scar House Reservoir is one of three places in the Nidderdale AONB that has a Dark Sky Discovery Site status. The Yorkshire Dales National Park has been officially designated an International Dark Sky Reserve, making this area one of the best places in the world to view the skies above.
What is an International Dark Sky Reserve?
An IDA International Dark Sky Reserve is a public or private land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and nocturnal environment. It is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural, heritage or public enjoyment.
Fancy joining us for homemade Pizza?
Pre-order a tasty pizza and dine in our panoramic glass-floored café overlooking the gorge. Pizzas are available from 4.30 pm – 6.30 pm. Visitors can pay for these on arrival, as it’s not included in the Dark Skies Activities price.
