I have a love-hate relationship with downhill skiing. Every year in elementary school, us kids would be treated to a trip to the local ski hill for a day. The first time I went, the experience was completely new to me and I struggled to even latch the rental ski boots onto my feet. The second time, I was a little more confident with skiing, but wound up getting sick and vomiting on the car ride home. On my last annual elementary ski trip, I didn’t feel like I’d throw up, so I left the bunny hill behind and attempted a more challenging slope, only to hit a tree and break my arm on the way down.Rather, the tree slid out from the woods and into the middle of the hill to ambush me. I swear, that’s really what happened.
If I had avoided the slopes and tried out the cross-country ski trails that were on offer, my misfortunes might have been reduced. Never once in my years of ski trips did I consider making my wintry runs a little less vertical. If anything, it would have saved me a broken arm.
This Saturday, Buffalo River State Park is offering a chance for winter enthusiasts to spend an evening either skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking their trails. The event comes with a twist: The evening trip will be lit by candlelight!
Not only will participants of all ages and skill levels be able to experience the natural splendor of the park, but they’ll get to witness it through an enchanting atmosphere. The luminary-lit trails are sure to offer a change of pace from the ski hill’s floodlights.
Participants are welcome to drop by at any time during the event and travel the 1 1/4 mile trail. Rental equipment is unavailable, so participants are asked to bring their own skis or snowshoes. Skiers over 16 years of age will require a Minnesota Ski Pass, purchasable at the park office.
For an evening awash with stars in the sky and candles along the trail, pack up your gear and head to Buffalo River State Park this weekend.
If you go:
WHAT: Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe
WHERE:Buffalo River State Park
From Moorhead, go 14 miles east on U.S. Highway 10
and follow the signs to the park
WHEN: Saturday, January 28 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
INFO: Get advance vehicle permits at mndnr.gov/reservations
Ski Passes are $6 for the day, $20 for an annual pass
