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Are you ready to add some sparkle to your winter nights? What better way than to to experience a candlelight hike in Milwaukee. Whether you’re trekking through snow-dusted woods or enjoying cozy treats by the fire, these hikes offer something for everyone.
Here are the top candlelight hikes happening around Milwaukee this season:
Check out our 100 Fun Things To Do in Winter With Kids or 25 Gorgeous Hikes Around Milwaukee for even more inspiration to embrace the season.
Lantern-Lined Winter Trails at Schlitz Audubon
Dates: Thursday, December 12 & Wednesday, December 18, 2025
Time: 4:30 – 6:30 pm
Location: Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, 1111 E Brown Deer Rd., Bayside
Wander the softly lit winter trails at Schlitz Audubon at your own pace as you carry a paper lantern you decorate on-site. This peaceful evening walk is open to all ages and makes a cozy way to take in the quiet beauty of winter. After your hike, warm up by the bonfire and enjoy hot chocolate with family and friends.
Related: Schlitz Audubon Nature Center: 10 Fun Things to Do With Kids
Winter Night Out (Fox Brook Park – Brookfield)
Wednesday, February 26 | 6:00–8:30 PM
Bundle up for a cozy evening outdoors at Fox Brook Park. Families can enjoy a candlelight hike around the lake, take in the winter scenery along paved trails, and warm up by the campfire afterward. Leashed dogs are welcome, making it an easy, laid-back winter outing for the whole crew.
JanBoree Candlelight Hike (Minooka Park)
Friday, January 24 | 4:00–8:00 PM
This self-guided candlelight hike lets families explore Minooka Park’s snow-packed trails at their own pace (weather permitting). It’s a simple, peaceful way to enjoy the park after dark—and bonus: park admission is free for the day. Well-behaved dogs on a 6-foot leash are welcome.
Wild Winter Night (Retzer Nature Center)
Thursday, February 13 | 6:00–9:00 PM
More than just a hike, Wild Winter Night is a full evening experience at Retzer Nature Center. Stroll the candlelit Discovery Trail, visit the planetarium, try snowshoeing, and stargaze through telescopes if skies are clear. The night wraps up around the fire with warm drinks, snacks, and storytelling—perfect for families looking for something a little extra special.
Candle Light Hike/Ski
Date: January 31, 2026
Location: Homestead Hollow area, Kettle Moraine State Forest Lapham Peak Unit, W329 N846 County Highway C, Delafield
Experience a serene 1.8-mile candlelit trail through the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Warm up by the bonfire, enjoy treats at Trecker Lodge, or bring your own food to grill outside. Don’t forget to grab a free voucher (required per vehicle) and plan ahead by calling the park office at (262) 646-3025. A $10 special event fee or a 2026 State Park annual vehicle sticker is required.
Havenwoods State Forest Candlelight Hike
Date: 2026 Dates Coming Soon
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Location: Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee
Take a short 0.75-mile candlelit hike through the woods, then warm up with s’mores and hot cocoa. Snowshoes will be available if conditions allow. This event is free and open to the public, so dress warmly and enjoy the winter fun!
More info: Email DNRFWPPRHavenwoods@wisconsin.gov or call (414) 527-0232
Urban Candlelight Hike in Three Bridges Park
Date: February 21, 2026
Time: 5:30 – 8:00 pm
Location: Urban Ecology Center, Menomonee Valley, 3700 W. Pierce St., Milwaukee
Celebrate winter at the 8th Annual Urban Candlelight Hike! Stroll through candlelit trails, enjoy campfires, roast marshmallows, sip hot cocoa, and munch on popcorn. This family-friendly event is free, with donations appreciated to support the Urban Ecology Center’s programs.
More info: Urban Candlelight Hike
Related Posts
- 100 Fun Things To Do in Winter With Kids
- 25 Gorgeous Hikes Around Milwaukee
- Beat Winter Blues: 5 Easy Ways to Get Kids Outside
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
