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Dark Skies Activities – Canoeing / High Wire

Event Date: 06th Nov 2026 - 28th Mar 2027
  • Price from: £42
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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.

You will be greeted at 7pm in our wonderful glass-floored café ,we will head up to Scar House Reservoir to get out on the water and view the skies above.

You will receive –

  • A guided open water canoeing experience across Scar House Reservoir
  • Stargazing
  • Introduction and guidance by experienced and friendly instructors
  • All safety equipment provided – canoes, paddles, buoyancy aids

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!

Discover the allure of dark skies through an unparalleled canoeing experience with How Stean Gorge.

Our canoeing under the dark skies (or a Via Ferrata course!) offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the night sky while gliding through the tranquil waters of Scar House Reservor or climbing the walls of How Stean Gorge.

Led by our expert team, this immersive activity allows you to witness the stars, planets, and galaxies in a setting of unparalleled natural beauty. Equipped with high-quality gear and guided by our friendly and knowledgeable instructors, this experience guarantees a seamless and memorable journey under the mesmerising dark skies.

We provide everything for you, you simply have to bring yourself and some wellies!

Please bring along –

  • Waterproof Coat and trousers (we do have some waterproof items if you don’t have your own)
  • Wellies – tend to be the best footwear as you can paddle out a little way to step in and out of your Canoe whilst staying dry
  • Hat & Gloves
  • All safety equipment is supplied by How Stean Gorge

If canoeing doesn’t go ahead because of bad weather our  Via Ferrata High Wire Course will be the back up plan.

IF CANOEING IS NOT POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF BAD WEATHER,

AN ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY WILL BE PROVIDED (VIA FERRATA HIGH WIRE)

WE ARE UNABLE TO PROVIDE REFUNDS OR DATE EXCHANGES FOR THESE SPECIAL EVENTS DUE TO ADDITIONAL COSTS.