Ignite the Night

Outdoor stage with the word ignite lit up.

Experience the Bright Side of Winter

A mid-day stroll through nature does wonders for the mind, body and soul. However, the benefits of nature don’t stop when the sun goes down, that’s why we’re inviting you to ignite your senses by experiencing the bright side of winter! Join us at Terra Cotta or Island Lake Conservation Area, where visitors can explore the park after dark, on trails illuminated with fragrant campfires and magical lights.

Hiking, skiing and snowshoeing are great ways to enjoy this outdoor experience. Did you know that you can burn twice as many calories snowshoeing for one hour compared to walking for an hour? Crunch through the snow, gaze at the night sky and follow the glow of lights through the forest.

Outdoor skating rink in a pavilion.
Outdoor skating rink at the Rockview Pavilion at Island Lake Conservation Area.

On select nights, CVC hosts Ignite the Night Plus which offers equipment rentals at both locations, including snowshoes or cross-country skis and lake access for moonlit skating and ice fishing at Island Lake. There are snowshoes and cross-country ski rentals at Terra Cotta and snowshoes and ice fishing rods at Island Lake. Rentals and lake access are based on safe winter conditions. On these nights the parks will stay open until 9 p.m.

We also have one-hour ice skating rink reservations available at both locations, as conditions permit.

Dog on a leash outside.
Bring your pets and for everyone’s safety, please keep them on a leash.

Take in and enjoy the beautiful sounds of nature. The great horned owl is one species of bird active at night. While enjoying the campfire, we suggest closing your eyes and listening for the sounds of owls hooting.

Bird perched on tree branch.
Great horned owls advertise their territories with deep, soft hoots with a stuttering rhythm: hoo-h’HOO-hoo-hoo.

What you’ll need:

  • A comfortable pair of hiking boots
  • A flashlight (we suggest a headlamp)
  • Gloves, hat and layers to keep you warm
  • Snacks to enjoy by the fire – we suggest bringing marshmallows to roast!
  • Wallet (the Terra Cotta General Store will be open on Ignite the Night Plus events)
Burnt marshmallow on a metal stick.
Do you prefer burnt or golden-brown marshmallows?

Ignite the Night will be running at Terra Cotta and Island Lake Conservation Area from January 27 until March 4. This after dark event will run from 5:30 to 8 p.m. and regular park admission applies. On Ignite the Night Plus nights, the park closes at 9 p.m. Credit Valley Parks passholders receive free admission to each park.

Rows of snowshoes and ski polls along a wall.
Cross country ski and snowshoe rentals at Terra Cotta Conservation Area store.

When the sun goes down, it’s no surprise that nature shows another side of itself – come see for yourself. We can’t wait to see you!

Share your photos with us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Snowshoeing, skiing and hiking available based on winter conditions. Please check Park Advisories for updates. Registration is not required for this event. Visitors can pay at the gate.

This event is subject to change or cancellation due to inclement weather. To stay current on event changes or cancellations, follow us on social media.

By Kimberley Laird, Associate, Marketing and Communications

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top