Candlelit Hikes are Back in Rochester, Minnesota this Winter

We finally have snow in southeast Minnesota. Winter is here! And it's a good thing, too, because there are candlelit hikes that are back in Rochester this winter starting this weekend.

Winter has Finally Arrived in SE Minnesota!

We do have quite a bit of snow predicted to hit us tomorrow. There are all sorts of predictions for the Rochester area. I've heard we could get 3 inches, 5 inches, or maybe 9 inches of snow between overnight tonight and through tomorrow.

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We do have a winter storm warning that takes effect at midnight tonight and goes until Saturday at 9 AM. We'll keep you updated on any school closings or delays and road conditions on our free app.

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Hopefully the storm won't cancel the first candlelit hike of the season. But if it does, no worries, there are more coming up!

Candlelight Hikes in Rochester, MN

Tomorrow, Friday, January 12th, is the first candlelight hike of the season. It's being hosted at Quarry Hill in Rochester. They've done this for a few years now and it always looks beautiful.

Quarry Hill Nature Center, Facebook

Hiking by candlelight gives you a totally different way to experience the woods and it's really cool!

The hikes do require a ticket, which is $8 per person. It gets you onto the one-mile hiking trail lit by luminaries and also one cup of hot cocoa at the gourmet outdoor hot cocoa stand.

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There will also be a bonfire where you can warm up with your hot chocolate.

No pets are allowed on the lit trail and there will be no warming area so make sure you dress appropriately. Also, they do note on the event page that if there is inclement weather that causes them to cancel the event you'll be refunded your ticket price.

Quarry Hill Candlelight Hike Dates

Like I said, the first candlelit hike of the season is on Friday, January 12th. The next one is Friday, January 26th and then Friday, February 9th.

Quarry Hill Nature Center, Facebook

The last candlelit hike is a special, 21+ event for Valentine's Day. That will take place on Friday, February 16th. This one is $14 per person which gets you onto the trail and also an adult beverage hot cocoa. It sounds like a fun way to celebrate Valentine's Day with someone special.

Check out some other candlelit hikes happening all around Minnesota.

Experience the Woods by Candlelight at These 18 Minnesota Parks

State parks across the state of Minnesota are hosting candlelit winter hikes that are only lit by candlelight. It's an amazing new way to experience Minnesota's nature. All of the events are free but you will need a state park pass for your car.

Gallery Credit: Carly Ross