PRESCOTT – More than 80 people gathered at Magee Park in Prescott on Sunday, Jan. 16 for a snowshoe hike under the Wolf Moon. Friendly conversation and laughter filled the crisp, night air as people of all ages enjoyed hot chocolate and snacks around the fire after trekking through the snowy trails lit by candelaria.

People flocked from the surrounding neighborhoods and drove from as far as Woodbury, Cottage Grove, and Hastings. Coulee River Trails volunteers cleared a meandering trail through woods clogged with buckthorn to create two half-mile loops.

Candelaria lit by students from Prescott High School's National Honor Society created a magical experience on the trail.

'Coulee by Candlelight' is one of many events planned for the park as Coulee River Trails gains momentum. Coulee River Trails (CRT) is a collaborative effort between community members, the Friends of Freedom Park, the National Park Service, the City of Prescott, the Prescott School District, and private landowners.

To learn more, visit their website at couleerivertrails.com or connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.

Submitted by Coulee River Trails Committee

Families gather around the fire with hot chocolate after taking a loop on the trails at the Coulee by Candlelight event Jan. 16 in Magee Park. Photo courtesy of Israel Haas

Prescott Fire Chief Tom Lytle enjoys a happy moment on the trail Sunday, Jan. 16 in Magee Park. Photo courtesy of Israel Haas

Long-time Prescott residents break new ground as the first to try the trails. Photo courtesy of Israel Haas