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A mix of a weekend at state and regional parks: Bike, make syrup, band birds

March 1, 2018 at 5:50PM

Sap dripped into a collection bag from a freshly tapped maple tree at the Arboretum. ] ANTHONY SOUFFLE ï anthony.souffle@startribune.com A surprisingly warm winter has sprung at the state's maple syrup production into life several weeks early at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, Minn. The Arboretum recorded the earliest sap tap date yet. They sponsor several educational programs that explain the process of maple syrup making, hold an annual pancake breakfast, and sell their product in the gift shop. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Fatbiking in Bemidji

Lake Bemidji State Park

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday

The Northland Fat Bike Rally is set to roll for its fourth year. Sponsored by Bemidji Area Mountain Bikers, a mass start is at 11 a.m. on Lake Bemidji. Then, head to Rocky Point Trail for either a 10-kilometer or 28K routes. All levels of riders are welcome. Register in person, beginning at 9 a.m. at the visitor center. After the rally, park trails will be open for fat biking until 4 p.m. (218-308-2300, mndnr.gov)

Sap to syrup

Whitewater State Park

10-11:30 a.m. or 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday

• Learn history, procedure and techniques in maple syrup-making. Call 1-507-312-2308 to register. (mndnr.gov)

Wild River State Park

1-2 p.m. Saturday

Also 1-2 p.m. Sunday

• Meet at the visitor center, and then visit the park's sugar bush. You will need a vehicle. Syrup will not be processed. (651-583-2125, mndnr.gov)

Eastman Nature Center

1-4 p.m. Sunday

• Learn maple syruping history and techniques, and sample the finished product. Drop in anytime. (763-694-7700, threeriversparks.org)

Cleary Lake Regional Park

10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday

• A day for syruping, start to finish. Cost is $5. (763-694-7777, threeriversparks.org)

Learn logrolling

New Prague Aquatics Center

5:30-6:30 p.m. Friday

A program for beginners that pulls in balance, agility, concentration and core strength. Cost is $10. Call 763-559-6700 to reserve a spot. (threeriversparks.org)