Winter camping basics
William O'Brien State Park
10-11:30 a.m. Saturday
Join Bear Paulsen, general manager of Northstar Canoes, for tips on clothing, safety and how to sleep comfortably. He'll also cover how to choose a campsite, shelter options and winter travel, from backpacking to pulling a sled through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Meet at the visitor center. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)
Animal insulation
Fort Snelling State Park
1-2:30 p.m. Saturday
Learn about some of nature's best-insulated animals. Meet at the visitor center before heading out to explore. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)
Tracking animals
Afton State Park
1-2:30 p.m. Saturday
The park naturalist will show how to read the stories told by animal tracks and identify the authors. Snowshoes will be available for free use during the hike if there is more than 8 inches of snow. Registration required; call 651-231-6968. (mndnr.gov)
Winter trout fishing
Whitewater State Park
1-2 p.m. Saturday
Streams are different in winter, and so are trout. Join Rich Enochs of the National Trout Center for tips on winter trout fishing. Participants will not fish. (1-507-932-3007, mndnr.gov)
Fat bike racing
Elm Creek Park Reserve
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday
The Frozen Frolic Fat Bike Race Series is on. Saturday's race includes a time-trial format racing a 10- to 14-mile single-track loop through trees and snow. The series runs races on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Races alternate among Elm Creek, Murphy-Hanrehan and Lake Rebecca park reserves. Wednesday evening races are after sundown and require mounted bike lights. Divisions include men's, women's and under 17. Helmets are required. Cost is $15 for those who preregister and $20 for day-of registration. Call 763-559-6700 to preregister and refer to activity #122282-00. (threeriversparks.org)
Nordic skiing lessons
Elm Creek Park Reserve
9:30-11 a.m. Sunday (skate)
Noon-1:30 p.m. (classic)
Skate: Learn beginning ski-skating techniques, including efficient edging, gliding and control. Prior classic skiing experience recommended. Fees for ski rentals do not include tax. Cost is $28 and $45 with ski rental. Reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #122267-00. This lesson is for ages 13 and older.
Classic: Learn proper equipment fitting, diagonal stride, stopping, turning, and a brief introduction to small hills. For novice skiers and those who want a review. Cost is $24 and $36 with ski rental. Reservations: 763-559-6700, #122265-00 (threeriversparks.org)
