Do This Now: Ski, hiking, by day and night

Candlelit hikes at Minneopa; full-moon outing at Frontenac.

January 21, 2016 at 6:34PM
Two kids enjoyed their walk with their family during an outing on candlelit trails at Fort Snelling State Park.
Two kids enjoyed their walk with their family during an outing on candlelit trails at Fort Snelling State Park. (Robert Timmons — Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Old-fashioned logging

Wild River State Park

10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday

Journey 125 years back, when logging was in its prime along the St. Croix River. Winter was the time of the lumberjack. Not only were trees toppled with axes and handsaws, but horses did the work of moving the logs to the river. Come and watch a special guest and his horses logging the old-fashioned way. Meet at the campground. The event will be canceled if the windchill is 15-below. (651-583-2125, ext. 227, mndnr.gov)

Winter Fest event

Minneopa State Park

5-8 p.m. Saturday

Head to the park near Mankato and enjoy two candlelit trails: one for cross-country skiers and another for walkers and snowshoers. Warm up around a blazing bonfire and bring along items to roast (roasting sticks will be provided). Meet at the group campground off Hwy. 68. (507-384-8890, mndnr.gov)

Full-moon outing

Frontenac State Park

6-8 p.m. Saturday

Enjoy a hike or ski under the full moon by candlelight. Bring your own skis. Meet at the picnic shelter. (651-345-3401, mndnr.gov)

Women's snowshoeing

Afton State Park

7-8:30 p.m. Saturday

Never walked on snowshoes? No worries. This walk with the naturalist will be good exercise, good company, and great fun. Snowshoes are available. Reservations required. Call 651-231-6968. (mndnr.gov)

Nordic ski race

William O'Brien State Park

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday

Participate in or watch the 46th Annual Marine-O'Brien Ski Race. Adult registration ($40) starts at 9 a.m., with races starting at 10:30 a.m. Children's registration ($12) is 11 a.m.; races at 1 p.m. All abilities are welcome. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)

Skate ski basics

Carver Park Reserve

9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Sunday

Learn beginning skate-skiing techniques, including efficient edging, gliding and control. Prior classic skiing experience recommended. Cost is $25, or $41 with ski rental. This lesson is for ages 13 and older. Call 763-694-7650 and reference number 121352-01. (threeriversparks.org)

Classic ski basics

Elm Creek Park Reserve

Noon-1:30 p.m. Sunday

Learn to balance, stride and glide. For novice skiers and those who want a review. Cost is $21, or $32 with ski rental. This lesson is for ages 13 and older. Call 763-694-7894 and reference number 121350-01.

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