Hike and Seek: Island Lake Lantern Hike

Several weeks ago, a shared Facebook post by a friend introduced a cool new concept in winter hiking – lantern hikes. I was intrigued – few things are as creepy as walking in the woods after dark!

Sponsors of this event, Friends of Island Lake State Recreation Area, hung multiple lanterns from trees along a short section of trail which made for a unique hiking experience. From 6pm to 9pm, you can arrive at any time and take a leisurely stroll through the dark woods, the trail illuminated by the occasional lantern.

At the trailhead, people congregated around the fire as they waited for members in their party to arrive. Once our group was complete, we made our way into the woods. The ground was covered with a thin blanket of snow, so once your eyes adjusted, it was easy to see the trail in between lanterns, and the Huron River flowing quietly past to our right.

Caught up in conversation most of the way, we met beneath a lantern for a photo which another hiker offered to take.

It was a neat experience and I enjoyed walking with friends, chatting along the way. A roaring bonfire greeted us at the end of our jaunt, and hot chocolate was provided. After warming up for a bit, we then made our way back from where we came. A comment on the Facebook page mentioned the stretch was a mile in each direction, but it sure didn’t seem it.

It was fun, but the narrow trail became crowded about halfway through the evening as we doubled back through the woods. We now had two way traffic. More families had arrived, pushing strollers through the pine needle covered trail and yelling after their kids who ran ahead. Dogs were welcome too, and we had to stand back a few times as barking dogs were reined in by their owners.

I’d like to go again and take Bill, perhaps later in the evening. The lanterns come down at 9pm. Check it out if you’re in the area!  There are more hikes to come through the end of February 2020.