The warm glow of candles contrasted with the cool tones of the snow, creating a peaceful atmosphere for Gooseberry Falls State Park’s Candlelight Event. An annual event, the Candlelight Event was postponed for a few years due to COVID-19, but has now returned, providing a beautiful winter event for all.
The Candlelight Event featured candle-lit luminaries guiding visitors on several miles of trails suitable for walking, snowshoeing, or skiing. A path going to the caves and back provided a shorter distance with an ethereal view. A bonfire and marshmallows were available at the Lady Slipper Amphitheater; while hot beverages and cookies were served at the Visitors’ Center.
Inside the Visitor’s Center, Marty Anderson and Beth Alexander provided music, Anderson on acoustic guitar with Alexander singing a wide variety of songs, including some of Anderson’s originals. The duo plays gigs all along the shore, including a number of them at Harbor Rail in Two Harbors. Anderson and Alexander shared that they’re looking forward to adding a bass player to their group in April.
To have the Candlelight Event, volunteers are needed to set up and light the luminaries. This year, American Heritage Girls Troop MN2931 and some of their brothers from TrailLife USA Troop MN-4738 were among the volunteers. Since 2013, American Heritage Girls have volunteered at the Candlelight Event, and the troop members were glad to be part of it again. American Heritage Girl Alexa Fleming’s favorite part of the event was going up on the bridge and being able to see all the lit luminaries from above, like so many stars fallen to the ground. TrailLife USA member Landon Fleming enjoyed lighting the luminaries located in the cave – some of which required some creativity to reach.
Thank you to all the volunteers who make this event possible! If you didn’t get a chance to go this year, look ahead to next February’s Candlelight Event at Gooseberry Falls.
