Ski, snowshoe, and socialize at candlelight events this winter

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Ski, snowshoe, and socialize at candlelight events this winter
(Released December 22, 2010)


With so much snow on the ground already, this promises to be an exceptionally good winter for outdoor recreation. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is offering many family-friendly programs and special events - including 25 candlelight events at Minnesota state parks and trails - throughout the season to help make it fun and memorable.

View events schedule: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/candlelight_events.html

 
Candlelight events provide an opportunity to walk, hike, ski, or snowshoe on trails illuminated by the warm glow of candles. Park and trail visitors can then warm up around a cozy fire and roast marshmallows or enjoy a hot drink.

Most candle-lit trails are relatively flat and easy, so that kids and beginners can feel comfortable participating. Some parks offer rental equipment, but calling ahead to check availability and reserve it, if possible, is advisable.

Five of this year’s candlelight events are within 100 miles of the Twin Cities:

New Year’s Eve: Walk or ice skate at Fort Snelling State Park (St. Paul), 3-9 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 15: Ski at Wild River State Park (Center City), 6-9 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 5: Hike or snowshoe at Afton State Park (Hastings), 6-9 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 12: Snowshoe at Lake Maria State Park (Monticello), 6-9 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 12: Ski at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park (Onamia), 6-9:30 p.m.
The candlelight events at Minnesota state parks and trails are free, but a vehicle permit is required to enter Minnesota state parks. Vehicle permits ($5 for a one-day permit or $25 for a year-round permit) can be purchased from the parks or at Twin Cities REI stores.

Before skiers age 16 and older hit the trails, they will also need a Minnesota Ski Pass. Daily ski passes ($6) can be purchased at park offices on the night of the event, online at mndnr.gov, or from any of Minnesota’s more than 1,500 electronic license system vendors.

In case of bad weather, events may be changed or canceled. For weather updates, directions to parks, and where to get a ski pass, call the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 (Twin Cities) or toll-free at 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.