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Do This Now: Geared toward children and the ski set

Tracking animals, creating crafts, learning Nordic skiing basics and more.

December 10, 2015 at 5:10PM

Animal tracks trail off. (Robert Timmons — Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Tracking animals

Afton State Park

10-11 a.m. Saturday

Studying tracks tells you the stories of animals' activities. Identify the "authors," and then create your own story on paper big enough to use as wrapping paper for gifts. Registration required; call 651-436-5391 to register. (mndnr.gov)

Fur, feathers and fins

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Learn about some of nature's best-insulated animals at the park. There is a presentation inside before heading out to explore the park. Meet at the visitor center. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)

Geared toward kids

William O'Brien State Park

10-11 a.m. Saturday

Help crack the mystery of which animals are roaming around the park and in backyards this time of year. Learn about some of the cool tracks to find, and then make a plaster cast of a track to take home. Registration is required; call 651-433-0500 to register. (mndnr.gov)

Tracking wild things

Wild River State Park

1-2 p.m. Saturday

The lack of mosquitoes is a plus of winter. But what happens to the insect? Join the park naturalist to learn about the wild things of the park, what stays and what goes in winter. (651-583-2125)

Ski-skate basics

Elm Creek Park Reserve

9:30-11 a.m. Sunday

Learn beginning ski-skating techniques. Cost is $25 or $41 with ski rental. This lesson is for ages 13 and older. Call 763-694-7894 and reference number 122252-00 to register. (threeriversparks.org)

Trail hike

Gateway State Trail

1-3 p.m. Sunday

A gathering for snowshoe beginners is scheduled — if there is snow. Otherwise, take advantage of the opportunity for a late-fall hike with a naturalist. Meet at the Hwy. 96 parking area along the Gateway Trail. (651-231-6968, mndnr.gov)

Classic ski basics

Hyland Lake Park Reserve

Noon-1:30 p.m. Sunday

Learn cross-country skiing basics, from gear fit to stopping and gliding. Cost is $21 or $32 with ski rental. This lesson is for ages 13 and older. Call 763-694-7687 and reference number 122950-00 to register. (threeriversparks.org)

Adaptive skiing

Hyland Lake Park Reserve

1-3 p.m. Sunday

An opportunity for individuals with any disability to try sit-skiing or guided skiing. Equipment provided. Co-sponsored by Courage Kenny and the Loppet Foundation. This program is free, but reservations are required. Call 763-694-7687.