The Hemi Lighted Forest of Hope near Cheyenne is one of the largest privately operated Christmas light displays in the country. In fact, you can even see it from the International Space Station.

Researchers recently determined that a holiday display would need to produce a luminosity of 10.6 x 103 lumen, the equivalent of 2,683 LED Christmas lights, to be seen from outer space, according to Daily Mail. With over 300,000 lights covering 632 trees on 4.5 acres, the Hemi Lighted Forest of Hope isn't just visible from outer space, it shines even brighter than the Cheyenne city lights at night.

Established in 2010 by Nancy and Gary Kelley as a tribute to their granddaughter who had recently undergone brain surgery, the lighted forest is now powered by dozens of volunteers, attracts thousands of visitors each year, and has raised thousands for the Hemi Foundation, which supports the families of children who suffer from seizures.

Along with the lighted forest, the display now includes two indoor areas, a Christmas themed train and railroad, remote-controlled airplanes, and a creek with five waterfalls and lifesize wildlife sculptures.

The Hemi Lighted Forest is located east of Cheyenne on 6565 Ashley Drive. Hayrides and hot chocolate are offered nightly from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. through New Year's Eve, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve. There is no charge, but donations are encouraged.

 

 

 

 

 

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