Do This Now: Snowshoeing, ski lessons, night sky viewing

Skate basics, 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Saturday

Learn beginning ski-skating techniques, including efficient edging, gliding and control. Prior classic skiing experience is recommended. Cost is $25, or $41 with ski rental. This lesson is for ages 13 and older. Call 763-694-7687 and reference number 122952-12.

Classic basics, noon-1:30 p.m. Saturday

Learn about equipment fitting, diagonal stride, stopping and more. Cost is $21, or $32 with ski rental. Call and reference number 122950-13. (threeriversparks.org)

Snowshoe Saturdays

10 a.m.-noon Saturday

Explore the forest, streamside and meadow. Bring your own snowshoes or use the park's. (507-932-3007, mndnr.gov)

1-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Have an indoor look at ancient artifacts, then join archaeologists on a snowshoe trek to evidence of a village from the 1600s and a campsite dating to more than 3,000 years ago. Snowshoes provided. Registration required; call 320-532-3269 and leave your name, phone number and number of people attending. (mndnr.gov)

1-2 p.m. Saturday

Hike and learn the basic techniques of bird identification. Binoculars and bird guides will be available. Meet in the visitor center. Registration required; call 612-725-2724. (mndnr.gov)

7-9 p.m. Saturday

Professional storyteller Dwight Wilcox will weave stories of the night sky. Then head outdoors with amateur astronomer Kenny Bahmer to view the night sky through a telescope. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)

Bluebirds

1-2 p.m. Sunday

Bluebirds are one of Minnesota's most-admired songbirds, yet many people have never seen one. Learn about the life history of bluebirds and how to help restore their populations. Meet in the visitor center. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)

Winter frolic

12:30 p.m.-2 p.m. Sunday

Unplug with your children by playing snow and ice games. (763-694-7650, threerivers­parks.org)