1 Showshoeing for adults

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Jan. 4, 9:30-11 a.m.

This beginner-friendly hike takes snowshoers on a tour of the frozen wildlife refuge. Snowshoes provided. Meet at the Bloomington Education and Visitor Center. Reservation required; 952-858-0710. More information: www.fws.gov/refuge/Minnesota_Valley.

2 Winter photography lecture and hike

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Jan. 4, 9:30 a.m.-noon

Learn to overcome the challenges of winter photography with practical advice on camera settings, shooting techniques and more. Then hit the trails for hands-on instruction. Meet at the Bloomington Education and Visitor Center. More information: www.fws.gov/refuge/Minnesota_Valley.

3 Snowshoeing the St. Croix

Wild River State Park, Jan. 4, noon-2 p.m.

Join the park's naturalist for a leisurely 1-mile trek along the St. Croix River in search of hoof prints, paw prints and other animal tracks. Snowshoes provided. Reservation required; 651-583-2125. More information: www.mndnr.gov.

4 Leafless tress

Fort Snelling State Park, Jan. 4, 1-2 p.m.

Identifying trees is easy during the leafy summer season. Come wintertime, it's more difficult to differentiate bare cottonwoods from, say, naked ashes. Join the park's naturalist for a brisk hike while learning to identify native tree species. Meet at the visitor center. More information: 612-725-2724 or www.mndnr.gov.

5 Nordic ski club

Elm Creek Park Reserve, Tuesdays, Jan. 7-25, 7-8:30 p.m.

Hit the park's well-lit trails with other skiers to hone your skills. A squad of seasoned ski instructors will work with participants on technique and conditioning, covering both skate and classic styles. Previous skiing experience is required. $90. Ages 18-plus. Reservation required; 763-559-6700 or threeriversparks.org.