Lac qui Parle State Park Candlelight Hike

The Lac qui Parle State Park Lake which Speaks Luminary Hike will be held from 6:30 pm until 8 pm on January 27th, 2024. The start of the Luminary Hike will be different this year as we will start at the new entrance at Group Camp 2 where parking will be easier. The trail starts towards the Lac qui Parle River continuing to the WPA warming shelter where ingredients for smores' and hot chocolate greet you. We will also have outside campfires to provide additional access to roast your marshmallows. The return trail loops around to the west and returns to the parking area.

Candlelight Trails

Get outside this winter and see the wonders of Fort Ridgely State Park at night, with hundreds of candle luminaries to light your way through some of the most scenic trails. There will be two loops to choose from to create your own adventure for a truly unique winter experience! Warm up and spend time with friends and family over three campfires spread out throughout the trails and free hot chocolate is available in the Chalet.

Candlelight Snowshoe

Come out to beautiful Big Bog and spend a magical evening snowshoeing by candlelight under the stars. Start at the northern unit's Old Caribou Camp trailhead and loop through the quiet north woods.

Snowshoes will be available to borrow as first-come, first-served. Afterward, warm up by a cozy fire.

Candlelight Hike

Half the Park is After Dark! Enjoy a self-guided candlelight hike under the stars. The 1.5-mile easy loop trail begins at the picnic shelter. Along the trail, take a few minutes to look up at the Milky Way, planets and look through telescopes for an even closer view of celestial objects. After your hike, stop in the picnic shelter for hot chocolate and cookies provided by Friends of Forestville. Snowshoes will be provided to loan for free. The event is free but a vehicle permit is required to enter the park.

Candlelight Event

Come out and enjoy Rice Lake State Park in the evening under a recently full moon. The main loop is a mile-and-a-half-long trail that will lead you through the candlelit woods from the boat ramp parking lot up to the campground, down to Rice Lake, and along its lantern-lit shore back to the start. There will also be turn-offs at a half mile and a mile if you prefer something shorter, or add a little more on the second trip.

Candlelight Event

Grab your cross-country skis, snowshoes, or warmest winter boots to experience the beauty of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park by candlelight! Complete your night by warming up next to a bonfire or with cider and cookies.

A limited number of snowshoes are available to rent on a first-come-first-served basis. Ski trails will be dependent on snow conditions. This event is held outside, so dress for winter weather. Extreme cold or unsafe weather may lead to the cancellation of this event.

Candlelight Event

Join us for a special evening of winter fun at Gooseberry Falls State Park for an unforgettable experience skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking.

Begin at the Visitor Center and follow glowing luminaries along the trail. A bonfire and marshmallows await at the Lady Slipper Amphitheater and hot beverages and cookies are available at the Visitor Center.

Follow the trail to Lady Slipper Lodge for naturalist activities for all ages.

Free parking is available at the Visitor Center parking lot.

Candlelight Event

Enjoy snowshoeing (skiing or hiking if conditions permit) by the light of the moon, with candle luminaries to help guide the way.

The length of trails and routes will be determined shortly before the event.

Candlelight Hike, Ski, Snowshoe

Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight! Snowshoe, ski, or hike the trail along the bluff top with beautiful views of the Mississippi River Valley, lit by dozens of luminaries and the light of the full moon. Warm up at campfires at either end of the trail or enjoy some light refreshments by the wood stove in the warming shelter. Refreshments provided by the Frontenac State Park Association volunteer group.