Join the staff at Voyageurs National Park for a ghostly tour/NPS

Sure, Halloween is almost nine weeks off, but that doesn't mean the ghosts can't show up early at Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota.

For the second straight year, you're invited to join the park staff for an evening lantern-lit journey to experience the people and past of Voyageur country. Participants will journey through the grounds of the Rainy Lake Visitor Center where characters representing the varied history of the park landscape will emerge from the darkness and delight the group with vignettes of their time.

Past historical characters have included the voyageurs, gold miners, and I.W. Stevens. New and old characters will delight once again.

The Ghosts of Voyageurs Come Alive at Voyageurs National Park programs will be presented from 8 p.m. to 9:15 pm on the following dates: Thursday, September 11; Friday, September 12; Thursday, September 18; and Friday, September 19.

Participants should meet inside the Rainy Lake Visitor Center at 7:30 pm for check-in and preparation. In case of inclement weather, the programs will be held inside. Participants will use candle-lit lanterns to light the path.

The ground is rocky and uneven in places, and so good footwear is recommended. You're reminded to dress for the weather and not to bring headlamps or flashlights. The program is free, but reservations are required. Participants must be five years of age or older. Reservations can be made by calling the Rainy Lake Visitor Center at (218) 286-5258.