Snowy Door County woods by candlelight are twice as nice.
Though it’s not officially winter yet in Wisconsin, the season of increasing darkness has arrived. We’re seeing less and less of the sun, commuting to work in the morning dark and returning home with wisps of orange and pink on the evening horizon. With only nine hours of daylight at our disposal, the outdoors feels inaccessible. Not eager to venture out after nightfall, we create indoor routines, and fresh air becomes a fond memory.
Happily, several Door County organizations combat the winter blues by hosting events that embrace the crispness of a winter night. Join a guided hike or venture on your own down a candlelit path and enjoy the velvety obscurity of a forest at nighttime.
The Ridges Sanctuary hosts a New Moon Night Sky Hike to welcome the first new moon of the year on Friday, January 24, 2020. More planets and stars are visible on the night of the new moon.
Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Walkable in 1 minute (400 feet north on Hwy 57)
Pre-registration Required: No
Cost: $5 members, $8 public
Whitefish Dunes State Park’s Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe and Hike on Saturday, January 25, 2020, offers a peaceful trail meandering through the trees on the shore of Lake Michigan. After a snowy tromp, stop by the warming shelter for steamy beverages and tasty snacks.
Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 38 minutes (22.5 miles)
Pre-registration Required: No
Cost: Free to attend with state park daily pass or sticker
Explore field and forest by night at the Friends of Peninsula State Park Candlelight Ski and Hike on Saturday, February 1st, 2020. A one-mile trail leaving from Parking lot 5 off of Highland Road will be lined with flickering lights. Enjoy fireside refreshments at the end.
Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 12 minutes (7.7 miles)
Pre-registration Required: No
Cost: Free to attend with state park daily pass or sticker
Newport State Park at the tippy top of the peninsula is arguably the best place in Door County to view the night sky. It’s a prime spot for stargazers on any night, and a lovely locale for a candlelit event. On Saturday, February 8, 2020, the park hosts the Annual Candlelit Ski, Hike and Snowshoe from 5:30 pm- 8:30 pm. Attendees are encouraged to bring supper or s’more supplies to prepare over available grills. Conditions will determine whether skiing is possible, but the 1.2-mile candlelit trail will be open for snowshoeing or hiking. After a ramble, warm up next to a roaring bonfire.
Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 28 minutes (19.7 miles)
Pre-registration Required: No
Cost: Free to attend with state park daily pass or sticker
A candlelit walk is the perfect headline event for a romantic weekend or date night. Return to your fireside room at the Blacksmith Inn after your helping of brisk winter air. Check our availability here.
