Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore by candlelight

From staff reports

Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore at night on a candlelit winter hike on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 6-8 p.m. at the Dune Climb. Join park rangers and volunteers to explore the park after dark. Arrive anytime between 6-7:30 p.m. to enjoy the full experience. Hike one mile on flat terrain along a candlelit trail. The self-guided hike should take roughly 30 minutes to 1 hour. Bring your sense of adventure, enjoy a trail lit by luminaries, and engage with our knowledgeable rangers and volunteers. The event is free with a park pass.

This hike will take place regardless of snow conditions. Park rangers will share information along the route. If there is adequate snow, this will be a snowshoe hike. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own snowshoes for the event. Snowshoes will also be loaned on a first-come, first-served basis.

There is no advanced registration needed. Luminaries will light the trail; however, visitors are encouraged to bring a flashlight or headlamp and wear layers.

There is no cost for the event; however, you must have a park entrance pass, or an annual pass displayed in your vehicle. Park passes can be purchased at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire, which is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For questions, please call 231-326-4700, extension 5010.