Windy Canyon Dark Sky Adventure - Private Trek

Get out of your comfort zone, experience the night time native bush, and the spectacular starry skies of the Dark Sky Sanctuary on Aotea, Great Barrier Island. 

This private trek begins with a complimentary pick up at your accommodation. Once at the Windy Canyon trail head, you will be guided on a short hikethrough native forest. In the twilight, your senses heighten in the stillness of the night time bush. Your guide may assist your discovery of our nocturnal fauna. 

The trek then ascends an impressive wooden stair structure through sheer rock faces. From an alpine plateau above the Windy Canyon, you and your companions will feel on top of the world. The imposing shiloutte of Hirakimata, Mount Hobson stands to the west, while the dark starry sky of the Southern Hemisphere expands limitlessly above you. 

Stargaze from the comfort of a moon chair with blankets for extra warmth, hot drinks and treats provided. Spy on the sky with your well adjusted night time eyes and our huge binoculars. Your guide, an enthusiastic Dark Sky Ambassador, will share astronomical facts about the moon, current constellations, planets, deep space objects and beyond. 

MAX PERSONS

8 

DURATION                                   

4 hours                                                           

1 hour walking time

1 hour transfer time                                        

TERRAIN 

Easy, well formed gravel track 

Wooden stair structures        

Short, steep sections on the trail 

WEAR AND BRING

Warm clothing

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes

Day pack, raincoat, water bottle, camera 

INCLUDED

·      Transfer from your location to Windy Canyon trail head

·      Tour briefing, health and safety

·      Medium challenge 20 minute twilight hike each way

·      Head torches provided for each trekker

·      Seating and blankets for comfortable Dark Sky viewing

·      Dark Sky observation equipment: binoculars and telescope

·      All food and refreshments fully catered

·      Transfer to your accommodation