Whatever the Door County Snow Conditions… Newport State Park’s 19th Annual Candlelight Ski, Hike or Snowshoe Event, Feb 13

Posted on 07. Feb, 2010 by Staff Reporter in Quiet Sports

Eighteen years ago Newport State Park began the candlelight ski tradition in Door County and it is the only state park in Door County that also allows hiking and snowshoeing during the event.

The tradition will carry on again this year as a portion of trail will come alive by candlelight, guiding skiers, hikers and snowshoers into a glowing, magical winter wonderland. Newport State Park will hold it’s 19^th Annual Candlelight Ski/Hike/Snowshoe event on Saturday, February 13, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm.

Park staff and volunteers will place over 300 homemade candles guiding participants down a one mile wooded trail section. Candlelight skiing requires no special talent or technique, and the terrain of the trail is flat and suited to the beginning skier as well as the experienced. Participants may want to bring a small flashlight to assist in putting equipment on or finding your vehicle after skiing or hiking.

Skiers and hikers can start at the picnic area parking lot anytime between 5:30 and 8:30 pm. A bonfire, fireplace and refreshments will be awaiting participants at the shelter building. Grills will be lit and available for anyone who wishes to bring along the makings for a picnic supper or marshmallow roast.

A Wisconsin State Park Vehicle Admission Sticker will be required, and they can be purchased at the park office, or any other State Park office during the day. For more information or conditions, contact Newport State Park at 920.854.2500. If you are interested in volunteering for the event, please call the park office prior to the event.

Editor’s Note: Due to a lack of sufficient snow in Fish Creek on February 6, 2010 the Peninsula State Park Candlelight Hike actually drew more people because anyone could walk the trails, rather than only accommodating skiers.

The candlelight event will be held with or without adequate skiing snow. Only extreme cold temperature conditions would postpone the event.