The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is hosting 26 candlelight or moonlight ski, snowshoe or hiking events in Minnesota state parks this winter.
"Gliding or trekking along a forested trail lit by luminaries is an experience you will never forget," said Courtland Nelson, director of DNR Division of Parks and Recreation. "As beautiful as Minnesota's state parks are in summer, a trek among a park's snow-laden trees and frozen waterfalls in winter is sheer magic."
Nelson noted that cross country skiing and snowshoeing are not only fun activities for the whole family, but they also provide great exercise to help keep fit.
"These are low-impact aerobic activities that work major muscle groups and burn about half as many calories as you would burn walking or running at the same pace," Nelson said. "Still, I feel the real bonus these candlelit events provide visitors is the camaraderie we share as we enjoy the beauty of our parks in winter."
Illuminated trails are easy to moderate in skill level and most are one to two miles in length. Luminaries are placed at intervals to guide participants along the trail. Most parks have warming shelters where friends of the park provide hot drinks and snacks.
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The Great Minnesota Ski Pass is required for persons 16 years or older ($5/day or $15/season). Vehicle permits and daily ski passes can be purchased at the park office. Most events start at 6 p.m. and run until 9 p.m.
If there is a lack of snow, the scheduled ski or snowshoe event often becomes a hike along the candlelit trail. In case of extreme cold weather, some events may be canceled. For the most current information regarding the event, contact the park. Event information is listed on the DNR Web site state park pages at www.mnstateparks.info .
On Friday, Feb. 9, the candlelight ski and snowshoe will take place from 6-9 p.m. at Jay Cooke State Park in Carlton. Cross country ski (5 km) or snowshoe (one mile) these candlelit trails during this annual event. Afterward, 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.
Visit the DNR Web site at: www.dnr.state.mn.us or call the DNR Information Center at (651) 296-6157 in the Twin Cities metro area or toll free 1-888-MINNDNR (646 6367) to request a copy of the Minnesota State Parks Guide.
