Candlelight Snowshoe at Big Bog State Recreation Area Feb. 21

Big Bog State Recreation Area’s Northern Unit will welcome residents for a candlelight snowshoe along the one-mile Old Caribou Camp Trail on Saturday, Feb. 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. The evening event will light a path through winter woods and end with a campfire and refreshments, offering neighbors a low-cost opportunity to get outside during the long Minnesota winter.

“Experience the magic of a winter evening on a serene snowshoe walk along the Old Caribou Camp Trail illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight,” a release said. “Wander in peace under the starlit sky, surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter. This enchanting woodland experience is perfect for all skill levels, providing a unique way to enjoy the season's tranquility.” The event is set at the park’s Northern Unit, nine miles north of the Ranger Station on State Highway 72 in Waskish, MN 56685, and is being promoted through local event postings.

Organizers ask participants to bring their own snowshoes. A limited number of loaner snowshoes, including children’s sizes, will be available, and attendees are advised to call ahead to confirm equipment availability. All vehicles entering the park require a Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit, which costs $7 for a day or $35 for a year. Those costs and the limited inventory of loaner gear have equity implications for families without equipment or reliable transportation; community groups and park partners may need to consider transportation or gear-sharing solutions to broaden access.

The event is part of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources candlelight series, which the DNR says encourages people to explore parks at night. “Candlelight events are visitor favorites every year and celebrate the beauty of Minnesota in winter,” said Ann Pierce, Parks and Trails Division director with the Minnesota DNR. The DNR calendar lists 20 candlelight events at 17 locations between Jan. 1 and Feb. 28, including: Afton State Park: Feb. 7; Big Bog State Recreation Area: Feb. 21; Camden State Park: Jan. 31; Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park: Jan. 1; Fort Ridgely State Park: Jan. 31; Frontenac State Park: Jan. 31; Gateway State Trail: Jan. 23; Glacial Lakes State Park: Feb. 14; Gooseberry Falls State Park: Feb. 14; Itasca State Park: Jan. 10 and Feb. 14; Lake Bemidji State Park: Jan. 31 and Feb. 14; Lake Carlos State Park: Jan. 31 and Feb. 28; Luce Line State Trail: Jan. 2; Lac qui Parle State Park: Jan. 3; Mille Lacs Kathio State Park: Jan. 31; Nerstrand Big Woods State Park: Jan. 24; Wild River State Park: Feb. 14.

For Beltrami County residents, the candlelight snowshoe is more than a seasonal outing. It supports physical activity, reduces winter isolation, and highlights public lands as shared spaces for mental and social well-being. Practical considerations for families include vehicle permit costs, limited loaner gear, and variable snow cover that can change activity options. Before heading out, confirm loaner availability and plan for cold-weather safety; organizers will provide a warm campfire and refreshments after the walk. The event offers a chance to reconnect with neighbors and nature, and it underscores ongoing conversations about ensuring equitable access to outdoor recreation across the county.