Annual Luminary Hike at Wittenbach Wege Center This Weekend

Note: This article refers to the 2017 Luminary Walk. Information about the 2023 Luminary Hike can be found here

 

Another December tradition in the community is the luminary hike at the Wittenbach Wege Center (WWC).  The event runs Saturday, December 9 from 5pm – 9pm.  Activities are free, however a $2/person donation is suggested.  The family fun evening is come and go at your own pace during open hours.  According to WWC Director Courtney Cheers, the night hike continues to gain popularity.  An anticipated precipitation free evening will likely mean more people taking advantage of the luminary hike, which has been happening for over 15 years.  

Light the Way
It’s only during special events are guests allowed to explore the WWC trails at night.  Early December is one of those opportunities.  For more than 15 years, the annual luminary hike has featured lit trails which lead to various activities on the grounds.  Milk jugs with a mixture of wax and battery operated candles are used to light the trails.  

Stroll along to the cabin where you’ll be able to warm up by a fire, make pinecone bird feeder ornaments, which will be hung on the trees around the grounds.  You’ll also have the opportunity to make your way to the observation deck in the wetland area.  There, weather permitting, the Geminid Meteor Shower will have you looking to the sky looking for “shooting stars”.  

It’s not looking like Mother Nature will cooperate, but should there be any snow on the ground, snow shoes will be available for rent for $4/person.  Child through adult sizes are available.  Shoes can also be rented on Sunday afternoons throughout the winter so plan a return trip to try them out.

While traversing the mile long loop, keep the lighted portion of the path on your left.  Large numbers are anticipated for the event so patience is another tool to pack for the event.  Using low voices will allow guests to enjoy the relative stillness and quiet of the woods at night.  

Warm Up Inside
Back at the center guests will be able to enjoy hot cocoa and make nature crafts.  This is also a good time to explore the inside.  Kids in Lowell Area Schools are familiar with WWC through field trips and would be the perfect guides for adults.  

New this year, luminary t-shirts will be available for purchase.  The design on the shirts is made by local artist Georgia Donovan.  Proceeds from the $15 shirt will help support educational programs.  Cash or check will be accepted as payment for the shirts.  

An Evening of Fun
December 9 will be a great night to visit the WWC for the annual luminary hike.  Guests can come and go or stay the entire time between 5pm – 9pm.  Additional parking will be available at Lowell High School and a lighted path will guide visitors to the center.  Participants are asked to leave furry members of the family home this evening.  

Nighttime hiking is a different experience from hitting the trails during daylight hours.  The crisp night air and activities on the grounds is a great way to spend time with friends and family making outdoor memories.  More than 500 people attended the event last year with larger numbers expected this year. “Bring whisper voices and patience!  There will be more people than last year!” says Cheers.  

Volunteers are still needed to help make the event run smoothly.  You can use Sign-up Genius to fill a need or contact Courtney at [email protected] or call 616-987-2565.  Plan on helping out then taking part in the activities or wander around before lending a hand.  

The Wittenbach Wege Center is located across from Lowell High School at 11715 Vergennes.  Staff and volunteers are looking forward to welcoming guests to a fun evening on Saturday, December 9 from 5pm – 9pm.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*