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

1 Showshoeing for adults

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Jan. 4, 9:30-11 a.m.

This beginner-friendly hike takes snowshoers on a tour of the frozen wildlife refuge. Snowshoes provided. Meet at the Bloomington Education and Visitor Center. Reservation required; 952-858-0710. More information: www.fws.gov/refuge/Minnesota_Valley.

2 Winter photography lecture and hike

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Jan. 4, 9:30 a.m.-noon

Learn to overcome the challenges of winter photography with practical advice on camera settings, shooting techniques and more. Then hit the trails for hands-on instruction. Meet at the Bloomington Education and Visitor Center. More information: www.fws.gov/refuge/Minnesota_Valley.

3 Snowshoeing the St. Croix

Join the park's naturalist for a leisurely 1-mile trek along the St. Croix River in search of hoof prints, paw prints and other animal tracks. Snowshoes provided. Reservation required; 651-583-2125. More information: www.mndnr.gov.

4 Leafless tress

Fort Snelling State Park, Jan. 4, 1-2 p.m.

Identifying trees is easy during the leafy summer season. Come wintertime, it's more difficult to differentiate bare cottonwoods from, say, naked ashes. Join the park's naturalist for a brisk hike while learning to identify native tree species. Meet at the visitor center. More information: 612-725-2724 or www.mndnr.gov.

5 Nordic ski club