justnorth posted on January 01, 2008 20:10 :: 907 Views
Following several low snow years where state park and forest “candlelight skis” became candlelight hikes or were cancelled, early winter conditions hold promise that hundreds if not thousands of people should be able to enjoy skiing by candlelight at parks and forests this winter.
As of mid-December, the entire state was blanketed by snow and most state parks and forests have groomed cross-country ski trails. The first of more than 20 candlelight events at state parks and forests will be held Saturday, Jan. 5. The largest number of events will be held Saturday, Feb. 9, when seven state parks and forests hold events.
Wisconsin state parks began offering candlelight skiing events in the 1980s, and they have grown to become some of the most popular winter events at parks and trails, attracting as many as 1,000 skiers in a single night, says Kimberly Currie, of the Wisconsin State Parks program.
“The lack of snow the past couple of years was disappointing to snow sport enthusiasts, so we’re expecting good turnouts this winter if snow conditions hold up,” she says.
Many parks also offer a separate candlelit trail for hikers and snowshoers even if there is enough snow to ski, so people who don’t ski can still come out to enjoy these events.
In general, the events are held on beginning-level ski trails with gently rolling hills; however, some parks do set candles out on more difficult trails for advanced skiers. The trails are lit with between 200 to 400 candles per mile. Most events begin after dusk, about 5 to 6 p.m., and run until about 9 p.m. At many events, park or forest staff or organized "friends groups" build bonfires or have fires in warming houses. Some events offer grills for visitors to cook food, and others offer hot chocolate or other snacks for sale.
Events could still be cancelled or changed if conditions change or if there are hazardous conditions, such as freezing rain or icy trails, so park officials say it is always best to call ahead.
A complete list of 2008 Candlelight Skis and Hikes in Wisconsin State Parks, Forests and Trails is available on the DNR Web site.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Wisconsin State Parks - (608) 266-2181
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