State parks programs from syrup-making to animal-tracking

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)