Warm Up to Winter on Candlelight Trails
Warm Up to Winter on Candlelight Trails
By Anne Paterson
One of the most beautiful and memorable ways to experience a winter night in Minnesota is to explore its scenic trails by candlelight. At the following special events, you can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or hiking with trailside luminaries (candles or lanterns) lighting the way. On clear nights, a full moon and twinkling stars may shed even more light on your outdoor adventure.
These events are suitable for all ages and ability levels. The candle-lit trails are generally only a mile or two in length and mostly flat. Often, there will also be a bonfire where you can warm up, enjoy some hot chocolate or cider and maybe toast a marshmallow or two.
Many of the candlelight events taking place in the coming months are listed here. Check back periodically for updates. More events will be added as dates and locations are confirmed. Finally, don’t miss the “Know Before You Go” section at the end.
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL AREA
- Jan. 3: Luce Line State Trail, Plymouth
- Jan. 24: Gateway State Trail, Stillwater
- Feb. 1: Afton State Park, Hastings
- Feb. 8: Luminary Loppet, Minneapolis
- Feb. 8: Wild River State Park, Center City
NORTHWEST MN
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Jan. 11: Itasca State Park, Park Rapids
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Jan. 25: Lake Bemidji State Park, Bemidji
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Feb. 8: Lake Bemidji State Park, Bemidji
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Feb. 15: Itasca State Park, Park Rapids
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Feb. 22: Big Bog State Recreation Area, Waskish
NORTHEAST MN
- Jan. 25: Vasaloppet Nordic Center, Mora
- Feb. 8: Jay Cooke State Park, Carlton
- Feb. 15: Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors
- Feb. 17: Sugarbush Trail System, Lutsen
CENTRAL MN
- Dec. 28: Sherburne History Center, Becker
- Jan. 3-4: Breezy Point Resort, Breezy Point
- Feb. 8: Millie Lacs Kathio State Park, Onamia
- Feb. 8: Lake Carlos State Park, Carlos
- Feb. 22: Maplewood State Park, Pelican Rapids
SOUTHERN MN
- Jan. 25: Blue Mounds State Park, Luverne
- Jan. 25: Minneopa State Park, Mankato
- Jan. 25: Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, Nerstrand
- Feb. 1: Hok Si La, Lake City
- Feb. 8: Fort Ridgely State Park, Fairfax
- Feb. 8: Frontenac State Park, Frontenac
- Feb. 14: Holzinger Lodge, Winona
- Fed. 15: Lac Qui Parle State Park, Watson
- Feb. 15: Myre-Big Island State Park, Albert Lea
- Feb. 15: Ney Nature Center, Henderson
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
- In case of severe weather, events may be changed or canceled. Check the website or call to confirm before heading out.
- If there is insufficient snow, ski and snowshoe events may become candlelight walks.
- Vehicle permits are required at state parks. Save time and avoid lines by getting yours online prior to the event.
- Skiers age 16 and older need to have a ski pass with them when using groomed trails at Minnesota state parks and trails.
- Skis and snowshoes may be rented or checked out at some locations. Call ahead to confirm availability and, if possible, to reserve the equipment you need.
Anne Paterson has been a member of the Explore Minnesota team since 2003. She initially served as a travel counselor and recently transitioned to her current role as the web operations coordinator. She enjoys sharing interesting Minnesota facts and even integrated her love for the state into her former roller derby persona, Minnie Assaultah. Outside of work, Anne has a passion for traveling with her beloved dogs and exploring distinctive and extraordinary destinations.