01-17-2008, 10:10 PM
Make plans now to attend any of the more than 20 candlelight ski, snowshoe or hiking events that will take place in Minnesota state parks this winter.
"Making your way along a forested trail lit by luminaries is an experience you will never forget," said Courtland Nelson, director of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Division of Parks and Recreation.
Illuminated trails are one to two miles in length over easy to moderate terrain and perfect for skiers of all abilities. Luminaries or lanterns are placed at intervals to guide participants along the trail. Most parks have warming shelters where friends groups provide hot drinks and snacks. All candlelight events are free and no advance registration is needed. Most events are from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Mille Lacs Kathio, Glendalough and Wild River state parks have cross-country skies available for rent. Snowshoes also are available for rent at many of the parks. A state park vehicle permit is required to enter a state park and the Great Minnesota Ski Pass is required for skiers 16 years or older ($5/day or $15/season) at all ski events. Vehicle permits and daily ski passes can be purchased at the park office.
"If there is a lack of snow, the event may change to a candlelight walk instead of a ski or snowshoe trek," Nelson said. "In case of extreme cold weather, some events may be cancelled. People should call the park or check the Web site at www.mnstateparks.info for current weather information. Participants should also be prepared for winter by dressing appropriately."
Saturday, Jan. 19
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Camden State Park (Lynd)
Ski or walk along 3.2 km of candlelit trails on a festive winter evening. Hot beverages and a cheery fire to warm your fingers and toes will await your return at the Group Camp/Trailhead Building. This ski or walk is set up as an ongoing, drop-in program that allows you to enjoy and discover Camden Park at your leisure through a special lighted night ski/walk. The event may be may be changed or canceled due to poor weather and snow conditions. In case of extremely cold temperatures the event will be canceled.
Saturday, Jan. 19,<br />
Candlelight Ski - 5-8 p.m. - Frontenac State Park (Lake City)
A one and one-quarter mile candlelit loop trail begins and ends at the park's picnic shelter where visitors can warm up by the roaring fire, eat cookies and sip hot chocolate. Board games and activities are planned at the shelter for those who prefer to enjoy the evening indoors. If the snow does not permit good cross-country skiing, the event will be a candlelight walk instead along the luminary-lit trail. Everyone is invited to this fun family event.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Glendalough State Park (Battle Lake)
Ski by moonlight and candlelight, then sip on hot cider by the fire in the Trail Center. Participants may bring marshmallows to roast or a snack to share. Reservations are also available to spend the night at one of Glendalough's heated camper cabins. Approximately 1.5-miles of trail will be lighted for the event. Skiers who need rental equipment for the evening should pick them up in the afternoon or call ahead to schedule pickup at the trail center. The event will be rescheduled if snow conditions are poor. For more information call the park at (218) 864-0110.
Saturday, Jan. 19,<br />
Kerosene Lantern Lit Ski and Campfire - 5:30-8 p.m. - Itasca State Park (Park Rapids)
Enjoy the light of the moon and lanterns at Itasca by cross-country skis on a winter night. Visitors can classic ski at their own pace along a kerosene lantern lit trail during this ongoing, drop-in program. Marshmallows will be available for roasting around a campfire. For added fun bring along fixings for s'mores or hot dogs for an energy treat around the fire. Dress according to the weather. Program is dependent on snow depth. In case of poor weather, event will be canceled. The park does not have skis for rent. Meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Lake Bemidji State Park (Bemidji)
This will be a magical night of skiing on 3-5 km of easy ski trails. Trails will be lit by the warm glow of luminaries. Stop along the trail to warm up by a bonfire and roast marshmallows. This event is co-hosted by the Bemidji Area Cross Country Ski Club and Lake Bemidji State Park.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Lake Carlos State Park (Carlos)
Moonlight and the glow of candlelit luminaries will light the trails for the annual candlelight ski event. In addition to skiing by the light of a nearly full moon, 1.5 miles of trail through the woods and along the north shore of Lake Carlos will be set with candle luminaries. All visitors will be able to warm up with coffee, hot chocolate, cider and other treats available at the park's visitor center. If poor snow conditions make cross-country skiing impossible, visitors will be invited to snowshoe or hike the candlelit trail. Snowshoes are available for rent at the park office for $6 a day. The event will be canceled if the temperature at noon that day is below 5 degrees Fahrenheit. For the most current information, contact the park at (320) 852-7200.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Moonlight Snowshoeing - 8 p.m. - Mille Lacs Kathio (Onamia)
Experience an introduction to snowshoeing by the light of the moon. The program will begin with a brief indoor look at different types of snowshoes and then move outdoors for a "how-to" lesson and a group snowshoe hike in the moonlight. Group size for the program is limited to 25 people and advanced registration is required. To register, sign up at the Interpretive Center or call (320) 616-2525 to leave name, phone number and number of people attending.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Wild River (Center City)
Enjoy winter recreation by the light of the full moon. Ski one of several beginner-level trails illuminated by candles and moonlight, and stop by the bonfire on the Amador Prairie ski trail. A snowshoe and walking route is also lighted. If there is not enough snow, trails will be lighted for walking. Lighted trails begin at the trail center, where ski rentals, refreshments and live music are available. If sky conditions permit, two telescopes will be set up for sky viewing near the Trail Center parking lot. Be sure to stop at the visitor center for a break to warm up, have some refreshments, enjoy some music and view "Prairie Passage," the park's prairie landscape restoration project presented in photos and music. This event is sponsored by the Friends of Wild River State Park and supported by National Honor Society students from the North Branch school system. Ski rentals are available at the Trail Center and can be reserved in advance by calling (651) 257-0685. Snowshoes are available for rent at the park office on a first-come, first-served basis (no advance reservations).
Saturday, Jan. 26<br />
Candlelight Ski/Snowshoe/Hike - 6-9 p.m. - Buffalo River State Park (Glyndon)
Two trails will be lit for visitors who will have their choice of skiing to their destination on the river trail or taking the alternate trail for those who prefer to snowshoe or hike the trail that extends from the park to Moorhead State University's Regional Science Center. Participants will be treated to refreshments.
Saturday, Jan. 26<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Charles Lindbergh State Park (Little Falls)
Explore one and one-half miles of easy, cross-country ski trails before relaxing with free refreshments in a wood-heated 1938 Works Progress Administration shelter building. The candlelit trails wind through stands of pine, oak and aspen and over Pike Creek. Although the park does not rent skis, ski rentals are available in Little Falls. In case of bad weather or lack of snow, a message will be left on the park answering machine stating if the event has been canceled. For more candlelight ski or area ski rental information, contact the park at (320) 616-2525.
Thursday, Jan. 31<br />
Moonlight Snowshoe Hike - 7p.m. -8:30 p.m. - Sibley State Park (New London)
Enjoy an exhilarating evening of snowshoeing under the light of the moon. Snowshoes and a guide will be provided for this evening event under the moonlit winter skies. Event is limited to 20 people. Call (320) 354-2002 or 2055 for reservations. Participants must be at least 12 years of age. May be canceled due to cloudy weather that obscures the moonlight.
Saturday, Feb. 2<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m.- Lake Maria State Park (Monticello)
Cross-country ski by the light of candle luminaries! One mile of candlelit ski trail begins at the heated Trail Center and takes skiers along a rolling terrain. An outdoor bonfire to keep visitors warm, a lighted skating rink and free refreshments will be available. Ski rentals are not available at Lake Maria. Depending on snow conditions, event may be changed. Contact the park or check the Web site for updates.
Saturday, Feb. 2<br />
Candlelight Ski/Snowshoe/Hike - 6-9 p.m. - Buffalo River State Park (Glyndon)
Two trails will be lit for visitors who will have their choice of skiing to their destination on the river trail or taking the alternate trail for those who prefer to hike or travel by snowshoe on the trail that extends from the park to Moorhead State University's Regional Science Center. Participants will be treated to refreshments.
Saturday, Feb. 9<br />
Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe & Hike - 6-9 p.m. - Rice Lake State Park (Owatonna)
The Friends of Rice Lake State Park invite friends and family to enjoy their annual candlelight event. Enjoy a beautiful winter evening gliding along 1.5 miles of candlelit cross-country ski trails or hike on foot or by snowshoe on one-half mile of trail illuminated by the glow of candlelight. Warm up with hot beverages and enjoy baked goodies at the park office.
Friday, Feb. 15<br />
Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe - 6-9 p.m. - Jay Cooke State Park (Carlton)
Cross-country ski (5 km) or snowshoe (one mile) of candlelit trails during this annual event. Warm up by the fire and enjoy free refreshments. Meet at the River Inn Visitor Center in the park. Snowshoes are available; call ahead to reserve a pair at (218) 384-4610.
Saturday, Feb. 16<br />
Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe & Walk - 6-8:30 p.m. - Gooseberry Falls State Park (Two Harbors)
Visitors can enjoy an evening on a candlelight ski (about two miles) or snowshoe (one mile loop) trail. Participants may also take in a short candlelight walk (about one-half mile round trip) to see the Upper Falls covered in ice. Warm up by the fire and enjoy free refreshments. In case of poor weather or snow conditions the event will be canceled. Meet in visitor center. For more information on the trails, call (218) 834-3855.
Saturday, Feb. 16<br />
Candlelight Ski and Walk - 5-8 p.m. - Fort Snelling State Park (Twin Cities)
Explore the park during a winter night by candlelight. Cross-country ski loops of one, two and three-miles in length and a one mile walking trail around and through Pike Island will be lit with luminaries. Enjoy roasting marshmallows at an outdoor fire, or have a cup of hot chocolate or cider around the fireplace in the Visitor Center. Visitors say this is a great way to spend a winter evening. The event is co-hosted by the park and the Fort Snelling State Park Association.
Saturday, Feb. 16<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-10 p.m. - Mille Lacs Kathio State Park (Onamia)
Ski by the light of the moon plus candle luminaries placed along the trail to help guide the way. A one-mile circle route and a separate two and one-half mile trail between the park's trail center and interpretive center will be lit. Refreshments will be served and nature films shown. A shuttle bus will run continuously between the trail center and interpretive center. Ski rental is available at the park on a first-come, first served basis.
Saturday, Feb. 16<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Sand Dunes State Forest - 5 miles west of Zimmerman
Enjoy a winter evening of skiing by candlelight. A 1.5-mile loop of trail will be lit with candle luminaries. Warm up before and after skiing with free hot chocolate and a bonfire. Ski rentals will not be available. Sand Dunes is located 5 miles west of Zimmerman on<br />
County Road 4.
Saturday, Feb. 23<br />
Candlelight Ski and Walk - 6-10 p.m. - Father Hennepin State Park (Isle)
The public is invited for an evening of cross-country skiing (or hiking) on candlelit trails. Refreshments and ski rentals will be available. The event is sponsored by the Friends of Father Hennepin State Park.
Saturday, Feb. 23<br />
Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe and Walk - 6-8 p.m. - McCarthy Beach State Park (Side Lake)
By the light of luminaries and full moon ski, snowshoe or walk on 1.5 miles of groomed trails along Side Lake. The Friends of McCarthy Beach will provide hot beverages around a campfire. The event begins at the park office.
Saturday, Feb. 23<br />
Candlelight Snowshoe & Hike - 6-8:30 p.m. - Split Rock Lighthouse State Park (Two Harbors)
Visitors are encourages to wear snowshoes or boots to take a magical hike along the shoreline and listen to the waves crash on the shores of Lake Superior, or head into the woods to see the snow sparkle in candlelight. Warm beverages, a wood fire and instrumental music will await your return to the Trail Center to complete the evening cheer. In case of extreme cold or icy conditions the event will be canceled. A one-half mile of lit trail (the walk out and back will total one mile) will be packed for hiking. The lit snowshoe trail is three-quarter mile in length (to go out and back, the total distance is one and one-half miles). A limited number of snowshoes are available for rental in the park office. Call the park at (218) 226-6377 for more information.
March 1<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Scenic State Park (Bigfork)
Skiers are invited to meet at the Historic Lodge to begin their ski on one mile of luminary lit trail. Afterwards enjoy a hot beverage and warm up by the fireplace. In case of poor snow conditions the event will be cancelled.
Minnesota state parks are open daily. Park office hours vary. Due to limited winter staffing, the DNR suggests that visitors call ahead for hours and services available.
"Making your way along a forested trail lit by luminaries is an experience you will never forget," said Courtland Nelson, director of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Division of Parks and Recreation.
Illuminated trails are one to two miles in length over easy to moderate terrain and perfect for skiers of all abilities. Luminaries or lanterns are placed at intervals to guide participants along the trail. Most parks have warming shelters where friends groups provide hot drinks and snacks. All candlelight events are free and no advance registration is needed. Most events are from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Mille Lacs Kathio, Glendalough and Wild River state parks have cross-country skies available for rent. Snowshoes also are available for rent at many of the parks. A state park vehicle permit is required to enter a state park and the Great Minnesota Ski Pass is required for skiers 16 years or older ($5/day or $15/season) at all ski events. Vehicle permits and daily ski passes can be purchased at the park office.
"If there is a lack of snow, the event may change to a candlelight walk instead of a ski or snowshoe trek," Nelson said. "In case of extreme cold weather, some events may be cancelled. People should call the park or check the Web site at www.mnstateparks.info for current weather information. Participants should also be prepared for winter by dressing appropriately."
Saturday, Jan. 19
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Camden State Park (Lynd)
Ski or walk along 3.2 km of candlelit trails on a festive winter evening. Hot beverages and a cheery fire to warm your fingers and toes will await your return at the Group Camp/Trailhead Building. This ski or walk is set up as an ongoing, drop-in program that allows you to enjoy and discover Camden Park at your leisure through a special lighted night ski/walk. The event may be may be changed or canceled due to poor weather and snow conditions. In case of extremely cold temperatures the event will be canceled.
Saturday, Jan. 19,<br />
Candlelight Ski - 5-8 p.m. - Frontenac State Park (Lake City)
A one and one-quarter mile candlelit loop trail begins and ends at the park's picnic shelter where visitors can warm up by the roaring fire, eat cookies and sip hot chocolate. Board games and activities are planned at the shelter for those who prefer to enjoy the evening indoors. If the snow does not permit good cross-country skiing, the event will be a candlelight walk instead along the luminary-lit trail. Everyone is invited to this fun family event.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Glendalough State Park (Battle Lake)
Ski by moonlight and candlelight, then sip on hot cider by the fire in the Trail Center. Participants may bring marshmallows to roast or a snack to share. Reservations are also available to spend the night at one of Glendalough's heated camper cabins. Approximately 1.5-miles of trail will be lighted for the event. Skiers who need rental equipment for the evening should pick them up in the afternoon or call ahead to schedule pickup at the trail center. The event will be rescheduled if snow conditions are poor. For more information call the park at (218) 864-0110.
Saturday, Jan. 19,<br />
Kerosene Lantern Lit Ski and Campfire - 5:30-8 p.m. - Itasca State Park (Park Rapids)
Enjoy the light of the moon and lanterns at Itasca by cross-country skis on a winter night. Visitors can classic ski at their own pace along a kerosene lantern lit trail during this ongoing, drop-in program. Marshmallows will be available for roasting around a campfire. For added fun bring along fixings for s'mores or hot dogs for an energy treat around the fire. Dress according to the weather. Program is dependent on snow depth. In case of poor weather, event will be canceled. The park does not have skis for rent. Meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Lake Bemidji State Park (Bemidji)
This will be a magical night of skiing on 3-5 km of easy ski trails. Trails will be lit by the warm glow of luminaries. Stop along the trail to warm up by a bonfire and roast marshmallows. This event is co-hosted by the Bemidji Area Cross Country Ski Club and Lake Bemidji State Park.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Lake Carlos State Park (Carlos)
Moonlight and the glow of candlelit luminaries will light the trails for the annual candlelight ski event. In addition to skiing by the light of a nearly full moon, 1.5 miles of trail through the woods and along the north shore of Lake Carlos will be set with candle luminaries. All visitors will be able to warm up with coffee, hot chocolate, cider and other treats available at the park's visitor center. If poor snow conditions make cross-country skiing impossible, visitors will be invited to snowshoe or hike the candlelit trail. Snowshoes are available for rent at the park office for $6 a day. The event will be canceled if the temperature at noon that day is below 5 degrees Fahrenheit. For the most current information, contact the park at (320) 852-7200.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Moonlight Snowshoeing - 8 p.m. - Mille Lacs Kathio (Onamia)
Experience an introduction to snowshoeing by the light of the moon. The program will begin with a brief indoor look at different types of snowshoes and then move outdoors for a "how-to" lesson and a group snowshoe hike in the moonlight. Group size for the program is limited to 25 people and advanced registration is required. To register, sign up at the Interpretive Center or call (320) 616-2525 to leave name, phone number and number of people attending.
Saturday, Jan. 19<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Wild River (Center City)
Enjoy winter recreation by the light of the full moon. Ski one of several beginner-level trails illuminated by candles and moonlight, and stop by the bonfire on the Amador Prairie ski trail. A snowshoe and walking route is also lighted. If there is not enough snow, trails will be lighted for walking. Lighted trails begin at the trail center, where ski rentals, refreshments and live music are available. If sky conditions permit, two telescopes will be set up for sky viewing near the Trail Center parking lot. Be sure to stop at the visitor center for a break to warm up, have some refreshments, enjoy some music and view "Prairie Passage," the park's prairie landscape restoration project presented in photos and music. This event is sponsored by the Friends of Wild River State Park and supported by National Honor Society students from the North Branch school system. Ski rentals are available at the Trail Center and can be reserved in advance by calling (651) 257-0685. Snowshoes are available for rent at the park office on a first-come, first-served basis (no advance reservations).
Saturday, Jan. 26<br />
Candlelight Ski/Snowshoe/Hike - 6-9 p.m. - Buffalo River State Park (Glyndon)
Two trails will be lit for visitors who will have their choice of skiing to their destination on the river trail or taking the alternate trail for those who prefer to snowshoe or hike the trail that extends from the park to Moorhead State University's Regional Science Center. Participants will be treated to refreshments.
Saturday, Jan. 26<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Charles Lindbergh State Park (Little Falls)
Explore one and one-half miles of easy, cross-country ski trails before relaxing with free refreshments in a wood-heated 1938 Works Progress Administration shelter building. The candlelit trails wind through stands of pine, oak and aspen and over Pike Creek. Although the park does not rent skis, ski rentals are available in Little Falls. In case of bad weather or lack of snow, a message will be left on the park answering machine stating if the event has been canceled. For more candlelight ski or area ski rental information, contact the park at (320) 616-2525.
Thursday, Jan. 31<br />
Moonlight Snowshoe Hike - 7p.m. -8:30 p.m. - Sibley State Park (New London)
Enjoy an exhilarating evening of snowshoeing under the light of the moon. Snowshoes and a guide will be provided for this evening event under the moonlit winter skies. Event is limited to 20 people. Call (320) 354-2002 or 2055 for reservations. Participants must be at least 12 years of age. May be canceled due to cloudy weather that obscures the moonlight.
Saturday, Feb. 2<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m.- Lake Maria State Park (Monticello)
Cross-country ski by the light of candle luminaries! One mile of candlelit ski trail begins at the heated Trail Center and takes skiers along a rolling terrain. An outdoor bonfire to keep visitors warm, a lighted skating rink and free refreshments will be available. Ski rentals are not available at Lake Maria. Depending on snow conditions, event may be changed. Contact the park or check the Web site for updates.
Saturday, Feb. 2<br />
Candlelight Ski/Snowshoe/Hike - 6-9 p.m. - Buffalo River State Park (Glyndon)
Two trails will be lit for visitors who will have their choice of skiing to their destination on the river trail or taking the alternate trail for those who prefer to hike or travel by snowshoe on the trail that extends from the park to Moorhead State University's Regional Science Center. Participants will be treated to refreshments.
Saturday, Feb. 9<br />
Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe & Hike - 6-9 p.m. - Rice Lake State Park (Owatonna)
The Friends of Rice Lake State Park invite friends and family to enjoy their annual candlelight event. Enjoy a beautiful winter evening gliding along 1.5 miles of candlelit cross-country ski trails or hike on foot or by snowshoe on one-half mile of trail illuminated by the glow of candlelight. Warm up with hot beverages and enjoy baked goodies at the park office.
Friday, Feb. 15<br />
Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe - 6-9 p.m. - Jay Cooke State Park (Carlton)
Cross-country ski (5 km) or snowshoe (one mile) of candlelit trails during this annual event. Warm up by the fire and enjoy free refreshments. Meet at the River Inn Visitor Center in the park. Snowshoes are available; call ahead to reserve a pair at (218) 384-4610.
Saturday, Feb. 16<br />
Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe & Walk - 6-8:30 p.m. - Gooseberry Falls State Park (Two Harbors)
Visitors can enjoy an evening on a candlelight ski (about two miles) or snowshoe (one mile loop) trail. Participants may also take in a short candlelight walk (about one-half mile round trip) to see the Upper Falls covered in ice. Warm up by the fire and enjoy free refreshments. In case of poor weather or snow conditions the event will be canceled. Meet in visitor center. For more information on the trails, call (218) 834-3855.
Saturday, Feb. 16<br />
Candlelight Ski and Walk - 5-8 p.m. - Fort Snelling State Park (Twin Cities)
Explore the park during a winter night by candlelight. Cross-country ski loops of one, two and three-miles in length and a one mile walking trail around and through Pike Island will be lit with luminaries. Enjoy roasting marshmallows at an outdoor fire, or have a cup of hot chocolate or cider around the fireplace in the Visitor Center. Visitors say this is a great way to spend a winter evening. The event is co-hosted by the park and the Fort Snelling State Park Association.
Saturday, Feb. 16<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-10 p.m. - Mille Lacs Kathio State Park (Onamia)
Ski by the light of the moon plus candle luminaries placed along the trail to help guide the way. A one-mile circle route and a separate two and one-half mile trail between the park's trail center and interpretive center will be lit. Refreshments will be served and nature films shown. A shuttle bus will run continuously between the trail center and interpretive center. Ski rental is available at the park on a first-come, first served basis.
Saturday, Feb. 16<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Sand Dunes State Forest - 5 miles west of Zimmerman
Enjoy a winter evening of skiing by candlelight. A 1.5-mile loop of trail will be lit with candle luminaries. Warm up before and after skiing with free hot chocolate and a bonfire. Ski rentals will not be available. Sand Dunes is located 5 miles west of Zimmerman on<br />
County Road 4.
Saturday, Feb. 23<br />
Candlelight Ski and Walk - 6-10 p.m. - Father Hennepin State Park (Isle)
The public is invited for an evening of cross-country skiing (or hiking) on candlelit trails. Refreshments and ski rentals will be available. The event is sponsored by the Friends of Father Hennepin State Park.
Saturday, Feb. 23<br />
Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe and Walk - 6-8 p.m. - McCarthy Beach State Park (Side Lake)
By the light of luminaries and full moon ski, snowshoe or walk on 1.5 miles of groomed trails along Side Lake. The Friends of McCarthy Beach will provide hot beverages around a campfire. The event begins at the park office.
Saturday, Feb. 23<br />
Candlelight Snowshoe & Hike - 6-8:30 p.m. - Split Rock Lighthouse State Park (Two Harbors)
Visitors are encourages to wear snowshoes or boots to take a magical hike along the shoreline and listen to the waves crash on the shores of Lake Superior, or head into the woods to see the snow sparkle in candlelight. Warm beverages, a wood fire and instrumental music will await your return to the Trail Center to complete the evening cheer. In case of extreme cold or icy conditions the event will be canceled. A one-half mile of lit trail (the walk out and back will total one mile) will be packed for hiking. The lit snowshoe trail is three-quarter mile in length (to go out and back, the total distance is one and one-half miles). A limited number of snowshoes are available for rental in the park office. Call the park at (218) 226-6377 for more information.
March 1<br />
Candlelight Ski - 6-9 p.m. - Scenic State Park (Bigfork)
Skiers are invited to meet at the Historic Lodge to begin their ski on one mile of luminary lit trail. Afterwards enjoy a hot beverage and warm up by the fireplace. In case of poor snow conditions the event will be cancelled.
Minnesota state parks are open daily. Park office hours vary. Due to limited winter staffing, the DNR suggests that visitors call ahead for hours and services available.