Winter Fest
Minneopa State Park
5-8 p.m. Saturday
Snow or no snow, it's still winter. The trails will be lit with candlelight for those out for a walk, snowshoeing or skiing. Warm up at the bonfire and enjoy a cup of cocoa. Sponsored by Friends of Minneopa. (1-507-384-8890; mndnr.gov/minneopa)
Ski with a naturalist
Flandrau State Park
10-11 a.m. Saturday
Join a park naturalist for a ski run preceded by some cross-country skiing tips and history of the sport. Meet at the beach house day-use area. A limited number of skis are available for rent at the park office. Call 1-507-233-9800 to reserve a pair. (mndnr.gov/flandrau)
Candlelight events
St. Croix State Park, 5-7 p.m. Saturday: Depending on snow depth, you can ski, snowshoe or hike the mile of candlelit trail. The event may be canceled due to extreme cold or ice. Check the park website for updates. Shoeshoes can be reserved, but quantities are limited. Call ahead to reserve. (1-320-384-6591; mndnr.gov/stcroix)
Rice Lake State Park, 5-8 p.m. Saturday: Hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski one or all three loop trails with durations of a half-mile, 1 mile and 1 ½ miles. Hot beverages and treats served at the park office. There will be a bonfire and warming shelter at the trail head in the boat-ramp parking lot. (1-507-414-6192; mndnr.gov/ricelake)
Full-moon walk
Sibley State Park
5-6 p.m. Sunday
Happy 100th birthday, Sibley State Park. This commemorative walk will be no more than 1 mile. Check ahead for snow conditions. Headlamp and snow cleats are recommended. Limited number of snowshoes available. (1-320-354-2055; mndnr.gov/sibley)
Brush up classic skiing
Noon-1:30 p.m. Sunday
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
Refine diagonal stride technique, increase control on hills, and learn step turns and double-poling techniques. Rental skis available. The lesson is for ages 18 and older. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. (threeriversparks.org)
Get on snowshoes
Baker Near-Wilderness Settlement
1-2:30 p.m. Monday
Explore snowbanks, search for animal tracks, and warm up with hot cocoa afterward. Equipment provided. Cost is $6. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. The program is for ages 4 and older. There will be a hike if snow is limited. (threeriversparks.org)
