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

1 Winter photography lecture and hike

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Jan. 3, 9:30 a.m.-noon

Meet at the Bloomington Education and Visitor Center for a lesson on winter photography. Topics include camera settings, shooting techniques, staying warm and protecting your gear. More information: 952-858-0715 or www.fws.org/Minnesota_Valley.

2 Bird language

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Jan. 4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Meet at the Bloomington Education and Visitor Center for a lesson on bird communication. The session will be split between the classroom and the outdoors. Bring a notebook, pencils and something to sit on outside. Registration required; www.mntracking.org. More information: 952-858-0715 or www.fws.org/Minnesota_Valley.

3 Full-moon snowshoe

Explore winter sights and sounds under the light of the full moon. Ages 6-plus. Children must be accompanied by adult. $5. Registration required; 763-559-6700. More information: www.threerivers parks.org.

4 Full-moon cross-country ski

Cleary Lake Regional Park, Jan. 5, 8-9:30 p.m.

Explore the moonlit park with a group of skiers. Some skiing experience recommended. Ages 13-plus. Children must be accompanied by adult. $15. Ski rentals available for additional fee. Registration required; 763-559-6700. More information: www.threerivers parks.org.

5 Evening cross-country ski clubs

Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Jan 8, 7-8:30 p.m. (Thursdays through Feb. 26)