Three Events to Enjoy Devil’s Lake This Winter

With the weather changing and getting cooler, and darkness settling in earlier, it can be hard to get outside and enjoy the fresh winter air! The Friends of Devil’s Lake are hosting THREE torchlit hikes this winter! These are great opportunities to bundle up and enjoy the quite stillness of Devil’s Lake during the “off-season.”

Our first torchlit hike occurs the evening of the Winter Solstice, Saturday, December 20. We welcome you to the North Shore of the park to begin your torchlit journey through the Northern Lights Campground. We’ll get the torches lit by 5:30 p.m. Don your layers and lace up your boots!

Our second torchlit hike will help you welcome in 2026. The hike on Saturday, January 17 promises cool temperatures and crisp air. If it’s a snowy month, we’ll bring out our snowshoes for free use! The hike begins again on the North Shore at the Rock Elm Shelter at 5:30 p.m.

Wrapping up the winter torchlit hikes is the event on Saturday, February 21. Beat cabin fever by getting outside! Campfire Kevin will help us sing away the winter blues around a roaring campfire. See how the lake looks in the winter and listen closely to hear the wildlife.

At all events, we’ll have a warm fire, hot cocoa, and fresh s’mores for roasting. The 1.5-mile hike is family-friendly on a paved surface. Some hikers prefer to bring a headlamp or flash light, or let the torches and moon light the way! Our volunteers will help welcome you to the event. Warm up inside the Rock Elm Shelter before or after your hike.

Snowshoes will be available depending on the weather. If the weather is inclement (extreme cold, ice, or other variables), we will notify the public through our Facebook page 24 hours in advance.

Mark your calendars, and get ready to embrace winter!

Participation in the hikes is free. We welcome donations. Admission is required to the state park.