Syruping programs get an early start at metro and regional parks

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Part of a series of programs geared toward women, this activity digs into the history of making maple syrup. Find out what equipment is required, how to tap trees and how to process sap into syrup. Meet at the visitor center. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)

Syruping for all

Whitewater State Park

10 a.m. to noon or 1-3 p.m. Saturday

From equipment and procedures to history, the program is all about maple syrup production. Reservations required; call 507-932-3007, ext. 226, or e-mail sara.holger­@state.mn.us.

11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Roll in the Northland Fat Bike Rally, in its third year. It features 10-kilometer and 28K routes. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by a required rules meeting at 10:15 a.m. and a mass start at 11 a.m. on Lake Bemidji. After the event, anyone with 3.8-inch tires and a helmet can ride the course until 4 p.m. There will be activities at the park for non-racers, too. Food and refreshments in the visitor center. (1-218-308-2300, mndnr.gov)

Lowry Nature Center

10 a.m.-noon Saturday

Build a native bee house to take home. Use basic materials like wood, PVC and paper. Add color with paint or markers. Explore landscape changes that give native bees and other pollinators a habitat boost. Cost is $15 per bee house. Children 17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations required (by phone only). Call 763-559-6700.

3-4 p.m. Saturday

Explore through hands-on activities at a casual pace at this family program. (763-694-7676, threeriversparks.org)

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2:30 p.m. Sunday

• Learn about maple trees and the history of making maple syrup. Find out what equipment is required, how to tap trees and how to process sap into syrup. Meet at the visitor center. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)

1-2:30 p.m. Sunday