Get up close with nature at Minnesota’s Big Bog

GRAND FORKS — Luminaries will light the boardwalk at Big Bog Recreational Area on Oct. 17, an annual fall outing that typically draws large groups of people. Last year, approximately 100 people showed up for the evening event that allows visitors to view nature by candlelight and the night sky by starlight. The event will go from 6 to 8 p.m., but visitors may arrive early or stay late. The best place to view the night sky will be at the end of the boardwalk, where a small area opens for visitors to mingle and relax beneath the starry heavens. Visitors may see wildlife during the boardwalk event and enjoy the fall colors. Contributed / Minnesota DNR There are no other lights around, said Dawn Jensen, administrative specialist with the parks and trails division of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. For safety reasons, candles have been replaced by LED lights, but Jensen said it doesn't lessen the experience — visitors will still get to enjoy the n