Are you feeling sick of the same old New Year’s Eve celebrations? Want something a little different this year? Why not spend your New Year’s Eve in nature with a candlelight hike at Quarry Hill Nature Center in Rochester? This unique and unforgettable experience will create memories that will last a lifetime. You can take a one-mile-long hike, stop at the Prairie House for a bonfire, outdoor gourmet hot cocoa bar, and end your adventure with luminaries lighting your return path through the prairie.
The Quarry Hill Nature Center invites all ages to participate in the New Year’s Eve hike with lighted trails, unpaved and snow-covered (hopefully!), to add an extra feeling of adventure. The hike is approximately one mile long, and you can take as many loops as you like. You can choose a tour of the area at one of the various available arrival times, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $8.00 per person, and the fee includes one cup of cocoa.
The Prairie House is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the warmth of a roaring bonfire after a challenging hike. The outdoor gourmet hot cocoa bar in a serene area amidst nature is the ideal finishing touch for the New Year’s Eve hike. Sipping on warm cocoa and roasting marshmallows while lounging around the fire makes for a cozy and relaxing experience. The Prairie House bonfire also serves as an ideal opportunity to prepare for the luminary light-up experience on the way back through the prairie. So, take a break and enjoy the beautiful scenery while basking in the warmth of the fire. The bonfire will indeed be the highlight of your adventure.
As the evening progresses, it gets darker, and the luminaries light your way back through the prairie path. You will be surprised to find how wonderfully illuminated the area looks with the candles in their bags. It is a sight to behold and one that you will never forget. The atmosphere and ambiance of the hike will give you a whimsical feel that will leave you mesmerized.
If you’re planning a winter hike, knowing there are no indoor warming areas along the lighted trails is essential. While this may seem daunting initially, don’t let it deter you from hitting the snow-covered paths (come on weatherman!). Just dress in warm layers and sturdy boots to protect your body from the chill. And if you’re looking to bring your four-legged friend or hit the trails on skis, unfortunately, those options aren’t allowed on the lighted trails. However, snowshoes are welcome, so don’t hesitate to strap on a pair and make your way through the snow. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be ready for a winter hike that’s both enjoyable and safe.
Make the most of your New Year’s Eve this year. Take a break from the usual celebrations and get outdoors. A candlelight hike at Quarry Hill Nature Center would make your holiday season different, fun and refreshing. This experience is not just affordable but also suitable for all ages. You can make it a family activity, a romantic walk, or a party with friends. Regardless of how you spend your New Year’s Eve, take a break from the usual and enjoy the hike.
