Do This Now: Editor-selected events at Minnesota's state, regional and local parks

1 Discover Winter snowshoe hike

Afton State Park, Dec. 20, 1-2:30 p.m.

Learn snowshoe basics before taking a naturalist-led snowshoe hike through the park. Snowshoes provided. Registration required; 651-231-6968. More information: www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

2 Sledding party

Whitetail Woods Regional Park, Dec. 20, 6-9 p.m.

Meet at Empire Lake Picnic Shelter (17100 Station Trail, Farmington) for an evening of sledding under the lights on the park's new sledding hill. Bring your own sled. Campfire and s'mores provided. All ages. More information: www.dakota county.us/parks.

3 Cross-country ski lessons: Ski-skating basics

Learn ski-skating basics including efficient edging, gliding and control. Must have prior experience with classic cross-country skiing. Ages 13-plus. $24, $40 with ski rental. Registration required; 763-559-6700. More information: www.threeriversparks.org.

4 Cross-country ski lessons: Family classic

Elm Creek Park Reserve, Dec. 21, noon-1:30 p.m.

Learn skiing basics during this family-friendly group lesson. Ages 6-plus. $15 per person, $26 with ski rental. $22 for children ages 6-13 with ski rental. Registration required; 763-559-6700. More information: www.threeriversparks.org

5 Beginner snowshoeing for families