Do This Now: Syrup-making, snowshoeing, family fun days

Whitewater State Park,

10:30 a.m.-noon or 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Celebrate the arriving spring in the park's sugar bush. This is an introduction to the long history of maple syrup and sugar making, as well as the equipment and procedures used. Participants will tap trees, gather and boil sap, and taste pure maple syrup. Schools, Scouts, 4-H and other groups of 10 people or more can schedule an activity specifically for their group by calling 507-932-3007, ext. 226, or e-mailing sara.holger@state.mn.us. (mndnr.gov)

1 p.m.-4 p.m. Sunday,

Eastman Nature Center

Discover maple syruping history and techniques. Taste the final product. Drop in anytime. This program is free and open to all ages. Children 17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

10 a.m.-noon Monday

This program is ages 55 and older at the park in St. Anthony. See and learn how trees are tapped, sample the sweet treat and make a clay container. Cost is $8, and reservations are required by Friday. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation; reference number 237864-00. (threeriversparks.org)

Snowshoe to the peak

Glacial Lakes State Park

1-4 p.m. Saturday

Join the naturalist on a trip to the peak. We will be snowshoeing our way along this journey. If there is no snow, the hike still will happen. Snowshoes provided. No children younger than 12. Register for this free event through Glacial Lakes State Park at 320-239-2860, or Lake Carlos State Park at 320-852-7200. (mndnr.gov)

Elm Creek Park Reserve

Noon-1:30 p.m. Saturday

Learn the basics. Lesson is intended for novices and those wanting a review. Cost is $21. Call 763-694-7894 (threeriversparks.org)

Women in parks

Fort Snelling State Park

Winter can last a long time in Minnesota, but come explore the park trails and look for signs that spring is around the corner. Meet at the visitor center. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)

Family fun day

Richardson Nature Center

3-4 p.m. Sunday