1 Afton Candlelight Walk  and  Snowshoe

Afton State Park, Saturday,

5-8 p.m.

 

Join people of all ages and abilities at this nighttime event. Three miles of trail (suitable for beginner-level snowshoers and hikers) will be illuminated. Call the park for information about snowshoe rentals. More information: 651-436-5391 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

 

Star Tribune file
Dion Snowshoes are made in Vermont. ORG XMIT: MIN2013112213374751

2  Snowshoe basics

 William O’Brien State Park,

Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

 

Meet at the visitor center for a short introduction to snowshoes and how to use them. Then head out into the park to look for tracks and wildlife. You’ll have until 3 p.m. to get the snowshoes back to the visitor center. Call the park in advance to reserve equipment. More information: 651-433-0500 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

3 Whalan candlelight ski

Root River State Trail,

Saturday, 5-8 p.m.

 

Ski by candlelight at this popular nighttime event in Whalan, Minn. A section of the Root River State Trail will be lined with candles, and there will be bonfires at each end. Soup and refreshments at the Whalan Town Hall. More information: 1-507-467-2696 or www.candlelightski.org.

 

4 Cross-country skate ski

 Elm Creek Park Reserve, Sunday, 9:30-11 a.m.

 

Learn beginning ski-skating techniques, including efficient edging, gliding and control. Prior classic skiing experience recommended. Otherwise, a private lesson is encouraged. Cost is $24, or $40 with ski rental. Ages 13 and older. More information: www.threeriversparks.org

 

5 Outdoors skills for women

 Fort Snelling State Park,

Sunday, 1-2:30 p.m.

 

Meet at the visitor center to spend a winter afternoon indoors learning a few knots that you might find useful on your next camping or canoeing trip. Materials will be provided. More information: 612-279-3550 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar. ­