- Estimated Cost: $5
- Max Trip Size: 50 people
Enjoy a peaceful candlelight walk on New Year’s Eve at Fort Snelling State Park.
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/fort_snelling/index.html
From the DNR event description:
“Hike miles of candle-lit trails, warm up at one of several roaring bonfires, toast marshmallows and more! This annual event draws nearly 2000 hearty people each year despite frigid temperatures and wind chills. Please join us for a fun and unique way to celebrate 2015 and ring in 2016!”
I know what you’re thinking – 2000 people? That can’t be true, and if it is, why would I want to do this?
I went last year, and it is true, there were hundreds of people, but they were spread out over the 4 hours of the event and the miles of trail. It was amazingly tranquil and serene. People were chatting quietly as they walked through the snowy, candle-lit woods, which added a sense of warmth and community. But don’t take my word for it. Come experience it for yourself.
Meet at the Visitor Center at 6:00 p.m. Look for me holding a Rover sign. We’ll walk for 60-90 mins.
Note: There are several parking lots, but keep going to the last one at the visitor center if you can.
$5 park entry fee (or annual vehicle sticker)
We’ll be done hiking early enough that you could still make it to a holiday party afterwards. If people are interested, we can head to Jakeeno’s Pizza& Pasta after our walk. It’s a nice, little neighborhood place in Minneapolis that I think you’d enjoy.
http://www.jakeenos.com/
Non-members are welcome on this hike, and I’m sure by the end of the evening you’ll want to make getting outside more with the Minnesota Rovers your New Year’s resolution!