Join us for a special evening of winter fun at Gooseberry Falls State Park on Saturday, February 18, 2023. Drop by any time between 6:00 and 8:30 p.m. for an unforgettable experience of skiing, snowshoeing or hiking with stars twinkling overhead and candles flickering in the snow.
Visitor comments from previous candlelight events:
“Perfect evening! 4th year coming up! Beautiful weather, gorgeous scenery! Couldn’t be better, we loved it. See you again next year.”
“This was one of my favorite candlelight events ever! Perfect weather, beautiful night and great experience. Thank you Gooseberry Falls State Park!”
“Thanks DNR staff and volunteers for a fun event. The snow cave and snow angel by candlelight was very clever. Campfire, Hot Chocolate and Cookies were a plus!”
Candle luminaries guide visitors on several miles of ski, snowshoe and hiking trails. Begin at the Visitor Center and follow the glowing luminaries along the trail. A bonfire and marshmallows await visitors at the Lady Slipper Amphitheater. Hot beverages and snacks are also available at the Visitor Center
Save time: Get vehicle permits and ski passes in advance online
A vehicle permit is not required at Gooseberry Falls State Park’s Visitor Center parking lot. Visitors who wish to have full access to the park can purchase a vehicle permit at the park or you can save time by getting one in advance. Visit www.mndnr.gov/reservations, log in (or create an account), click on “entry permit,” select a duration of “one-day” ($7) or “year-round” ($35), and continue as directed. You’ll receive an email with a permit that can be printed and displayed in your vehicle during your visit.
Those age 16 and older will also need the Great Minnesota Ski Pass if they plan to cross-country ski. The Great Minnesota Ski Pass ($10/daily, $25/one year, and $70/three years) allows access to miles of trails in state parks, state forests or grant-in-aid trails (www.mndnr.gov/skiing). Passes can be purchased at the park, but you can save time by getting them in advance; call 888-665-4236 or visit www.mndnr.gov/skipass.
Note that severe weather may cause this event to be changed or canceled. For information, email info.dnr@state.mn.us or call the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or 888- 646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
