Family snowshoe
Cleary Lake Regional Park, 4-5:30 p.m. Friday
Explore and search for animal tracks and warm up with hot cocoa afterward. Cost is $6. (763-694-7777, threeriversparks.org)
River snowshoe
Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday
Hhike near the Mississippi River. Beginners welcome. Cost is $5. (763-694-7790)
Family ski lesson
Elm Creek Park Reserve, 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday
Cost varies, depending on age and rental needs. For reservations, call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #122271-09.
Ski lessons
Elm Creek Park Reserve, Noon-1:30 p.m. Saturday
Learn cross-country skiing basics, from proper equipment fitting, diagonal stride, stopping, turning, to a brief introduction to small hills. For novice skiers and those wanting a review. Cost is $24 and $36 with ski rental. Reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #122265-10.
Winter walk
Wild River State Park, 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday
Join the park naturalist for a hike. The walk travels the river terrace loop and stops at the Nevers Dam site. (651-583-2125, mndnr.gov)
Parks by candlelight
• Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
5:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday
Join fellow winter enthusiasts to listen for the barred owl and other night sounds along two miles of flat, lighted trails with shorter loops suitable for kids and beginners. Young families are encouraged to come at twilight just as it is getting dark; bring a sled to pull youngsters on designated walking/snowshoe trails. (1-507-333-4840, friendsnerstrandbigwoods.org)
• Afton State Park
5-8 p.m. Saturday
Hike along a two-mile trail lit with candle luminaria, warm up around campfires and enjoy some hot refreshments. (651-436-5391, mndnr.gov)
• Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
6-9:30 p.m. Saturday
Enjoy skiing by the light of the moon and candles. Two separate routes will be lit. A shuttle bus will run continuously between the trail center and the interpretive center. Ski rental ($10/day for skis, boots and poles) is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Two half-mile snowshoeing trails will start at the Interpretive Center. (1-320-532-3269)
Sunday snowshoe
Fort Snelling State Park, 1-3 p.m. Sunday
Equipment provided. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy winter boots and meet at the visitor center. Registration required; call 612-725-2724. (mndnr.gov)