Want to learn how to cross-country ski?

The seventh annual Washington County Parks Cross Country Ski Festival will be held at Lake Elmo Park Reserve on Jan. 30. Anyone wishing to take part in either classic or skate skiing can take free one-hour lessons. Classic skis will also be provided free, although participants must register online in advance.

Organizers Steve and Jyneen Thatcher, residents of Withrow, in Washington County, manage the festival along with members of Ride and Glide Ski and Bike Club.

The clinic is free, with a suggested donation going to the Park Reserve for operating ski trails.

Lessons are for beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers.

Ski lessons will be held at 11 a.m. and 12:30 and 2 p.m. Equipment will be provided, but participants can bring their own. Participants will also need Minnesota Ski Passes and a parks parking pass, each of which cost $5 for day passes. Ski passes are available at the Lake Elmo Park Reserve contact station. They are also available from the Department of Natural Resources through its electronics licensing system and at the DNR License Center in St. Paul, or can be ordered by telephone or mail. Information is at www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/skipass.

FOR MORE INFORMATION or to register for the program, go to www.rideandglide.org and click on Event Calendar or go to www.co.washington.mn.us.

KEVIN GILES