New Year's hike

Wild River State Park

1-2:30 p.m. Friday

Start the new year off right with a hike to the St. Croix River in boots, or, if there is enough snow, in snowshoes. Bring your own snowshoes or use the park's gear. There is no charge to use the park's snowshoes, but please reserve them in advance. Call 651-583-2125, ext. 227. (mndnr.gov)

Candlelight walk

Luce Line State Trail

5-8 p.m. Friday

Walk the trail, illuminated in spots by candles. Walk on your own throughout the night or join a naturalist for a guided walk from 6 to 7 p.m. Park at the Vicksburg Lane trailhead. (651-259-5875, mndnr.gov)

Geocaching 101

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Learn how to find hidden treasures at Minnesota state parks and recreation areas. Meet at the visitor center. A limited number of GPS units will be available. Wear winter gear. If there is more than 6 inches of snow on the ground, the park will provide snowshoes. Registration required; call 612-725-2724. (mndnr.gov)

More geocaching

Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

1-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Meet at the interpretive center. GPS units and snowshoes provided. Registration required. Call 320-532-3269. Leave a name, phone number and the number attending.

Skate-ski and classic basics

Cleary Lake Regional Park

9:30-11 a.m. Saturday (skate)

Noon-1:30 p.m. (classic)

Learn beginning skate-skiing techniques, including efficient edging, gliding and control. Classic skiing experience recommended. Otherwise, a private lesson is encouraged. Cost is $25, or $41 with ski rental. This lesson is for ages 13 and older. Call 763-694-7777 to register. Reference number 124552-00. The classic skiing program later in the day is intended for beginners and those skiers who want a review. Cost is $21, or $32 with ski rental. The lesson is for ages 13 and older. Call and reference number 1124550-00. (threeriversparks.org)

St. Croix Valley Youth Ski League

William O'Brien State Park

1-3 p.m. Sunday

Skiers of all ability levels between the ages of 3 and 13 are encouraged to join this league with their parents to learn and enjoy cross-country skiing together. The membership fee is $25 per child, and all participants must have their own ski equipment. Meet every Sunday for eight weeks in all weather conditions at the visitor center. For more information, e-mail John Dybvig at john_dybvig@yahoo.com. Ski passes ($6 per day or $20 per season) required for skiers age 16 and older; can be bought at the park. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)