Animal tracks
Afton State Park, 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday
The animals of winter scuffle through what there is of snow and leave behind their footprints and other signs. Join this hike and become a nature detective in search of animal tracks and signs. Snowshoes available if needed. Registration required. Call 651-231-6968 or e-mail linda.radimecky@state.mn.us. (mndnr.gov).
Maple-syruping
Whitewater State Park, 10 a.m. to noon or 1-3 p.m. Saturday
An introduction to the history, equipment and process. Reservations required. Call 507-932-3007, ext. 226, or e-mail sara.holger@state.mn.us.
Kid-driven
Fish Lake Regional Park. 3-8 p.m. Saturday
Combine running, snowshoeing, mushing, sledding, climbing and more in an event called The Kidarod in Maple Grove. There are day and night race options of one and two miles. The Super Sprint is one mile; the Mega Challenge is two miles and is more challenging. Cost is $30. Register online. (763-694-7818, threeriversparks.org)
Lesson and tour
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, 1-4 p.m. Saturday
Learn basics of traditional cross-country skiing, and then tour the park. Registration required. Call 1-320-532-3269 (mndnr.gov)
Night sky viewing
William O'Brien State Park, 7-9 p.m. Saturday
Storyteller Dwight Wilcox will mesmerize you with stories of winter, then astronomer Kenny Bahmer will show you the wonders of the night sky through a telescope. Meet at the visitor center. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)
Classic ski lesson
Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Noon-1:30 p.m. Saturday
Learn cross-country skiing basics: proper equipment fitting, diagonal stride, stopping, turning, and a brief introduction to small hills. Call 763-559-6700 to reserve a spot and reference activity #122965-14. (threeriversparks.org)
Nordic ski along
Hyland Lake Park Reserve, 7-8:30 p.m. Monday
Explore the trails with other new skiers while getting tips and encouragement from an instructor. Sign up for one or all seven. Cost is $10, and reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #122972-05. The program is for ages 18 and older. (threeriversparks.org)
Mammals
Eastman Nature Center. 1-3 p.m. Sunday
Discover mammal adaptations by examining skulls and furs. (763-694-7700, threeriversparks.org)