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

December 28, 2014 at 12:33AM

New Year's Eve celebration at Fort Snelling State Park with skating by a wood fire, hot chocolate and cider and a walk through candlelit paths. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

1. Winter animal tracking

Wild River State Park, Dec. 28, noon-1 p.m.

Meet at the Visitor Center to learn more about tracking animals through the snow. Snowshoes will be provided if there is enough snow. More information: 651-583-2125, ext. 227 or www.mndnr.gov/ ptcalendar.

2. Snowshoe hike for adults

Whitetail Woods Regional Park, Dec. 28, 1-3 p.m.

Meet at the Empire Lake Picnic Shelter (17100 Station Trail, Farmington) for a naturalist-led exploration of Dakota County's newest park. Ages 16-plus. $18. Reservation required; www.dakotacounty parks.us/parks.

3. New Year's Eve party

Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Dec. 31, 5-8 p.m.

Meet at the Visitor Center for a family-friendly celebration with ice skating, hiking, a bonfire, even snowshoeing and sledding by candlelight. Countdown and ball drop at 7:59 p.m. $10 ($8 with preregistration) for ages 5-plus. Free for children ages 5 and under. Registration and information; www.dakotacountyparks.us/parks.

4. First day hike

Afton State Park, Jan. 1, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Kick off the New Year with a guided hike through Afton State Park. As part of the national First Day Hikes initiative, there are hikes happening at seven state parks this year. More information: 651-231-6968 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

5. Candlelight walk

Luce Line State Trail, Jan. 2, 5-8 p.m.

Take an easygoing walk along a trail lined with candle luminarias. Warm up around campfires with hot cider and other refreshments along the way. Park in the lot off Vicksburg Lane in Plymouth. More information: 651-231-6968 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.