Wisconsin State Park System Brings Autumn Fun

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds the public that candlelight hikes, fall festivals and other seasonal events will be held throughout October and November at Wisconsin State Park System properties.

With over 307,000 acres of public land, state parks, forests, recreation areas and trails host some of the state’s best fall foliage and fall color viewing.

“This year is the 125th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Park System, so it’s a great opportunity to remind people that our properties are all-season attractions,” said Steve Schmelzer, DNR Parks and Recreation Management director. “We offer something fun to do, no matter the season. Many of these fall events will also have a bonfire and s’mores, maybe even pumpkin carving. It’s a lot of fun for the whole family.”

Candlelight hikes are held on trails illuminated by candles, torches or other similar light sources. Hikes may be self-guided or large-group walks led by DNR staff or volunteers. Trail length and surface types can vary; however, visitors of all experience levels are encouraged to attend.

Some events include additional activities such as wagon rides, campfires and other family-friendly entertainment. Hot chocolate, cider and other refreshments will be available for sale or by donation. Some events will also have grills for cooking food or fires for roasting marshmallows.

Many candlelight events are organized by Friends Groups, which provide much of the volunteer labor needed for successful candlelight events. Volunteers may set out the lanterns, tend campfires, help serve s’mores or assist in other ways. If you are interested in volunteering at a candlelight event or other Wisconsin State Park System events this fall, visit the Volunteer Impact System webpage or contact a Friends Group.

The DNR’s Events calendar has a full list of fall candlelight hikes and other upcoming events.

Important Information For Attendees

The DNR is asking participants to help maintain safe and accessible events. Staff remind visitor to park vehicles only in designated areas, wear bright colored clothing or use glow sticks to be more easily seen. It’s also important to note that open intoxicants are prohibited.

This time of year, parking and restroom facilities may also be limited due to seasonal staffing and weather. For more information on park properties and locations, visit the Find a Park Webpage.

Most properties will require a Wisconsin state park and forest vehicle admission pass unless otherwise noted. A state park daily admission pass may be available to check-out from your local library. Find a list of participating libraries online.

Upcoming Events

Saturday Oct. 11

• Willow River State Park 6-Mile Fall Colors Hike
• Devil’s Lake State Park Seasonal Scavenger Hunt
• Buckhorn State Park Fall Fest
• Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit Fall Night Hike
• Council Grounds State Park Candlelight Walk
• Kohler-Andrae State Park Fall Candlelight Hike

Sunday, Oct. 12

• Kinnickinnic State Park 3-Mile Fall Colors Hike

Saturday, Oct. 18

• Whitefish Dunes State Park Fall Workday
• MacKenzie Center Friends of MacKenzie Center Fall Festival
• Merrick State Park Not-So-Spooky Skelebration
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area Halloween Hike
• New Glarus Woods State Park Fall Bonfire/hike
• Hartman Creek State Park Fall Hike
• Mirror Lake State Park Fall Candlelight Event
• Lake Kegonsa State Park Luminated Hike

Saturday, Oct. 25

• Whitefish Dunes State Park Fall Workday
• Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit Crimson, Gold, and Stillness: A Guided Forest Bathing Experience
• Devil’s Lake State Park The Friends Of Devil’s Lake Annual Halloween Extravaganza!
• Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit Fall Night Hike
• Willow River State Park Spooky Flashlight Scavenger Hunt

Thursday, Oct. 30

• Newport State Park Halloween Nature Hike

Saturday, Nov. 15

• Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit Fall Night Hike

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.