No Section

Snoeshowing, skiing, fire-making: What's in store for parks programs

December 20, 2018 at 9:57PM

Snowshoe racer Jim Graupner, 70, got in some training at Theodore Wirth Park Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015 in Minneapolis, MN for the upcoming snowshoe national championships. Graupner will be competing next month at the national championships in nearby Eau Claire, WI.](DAVID JOLES/STARTRIBUNE)djoles@startribune.com Snowshoe national racer Kelly Mortenson and Jim Graupner will be competing next month in the snowshoe national championships in Eau Claire, WI.**Jim Graupner,cq (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Snowshoeing for beginners

Cleary Lake Regional Park

3-4:30 p.m. Friday

Enjoy this Minnesota winter sport with a scenic, guided hike. Equipment provided. We will hike if no snow. Reservations required. Call 763-694-7777 to register. (threeriversparks.org)

Snowshoe under the moon

6-8 p.m. Saturday

Cleary Lake Regional Park

• Explore winter signs and sounds under the light of the full moon. Equipment provided. Hike will happen if there is no snow. Cost is $5. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. This program is for ages 6 and older. (threeriversparks.org)

6-8 p.m. Saturday

French Regional Park

• Enjoy a fire and s'mores afterward. Equipment provided. Cost is $7. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. This program is for ages 6 and older.

6:30-8 p.m. Saturday

Lowry Nature Center

• The walk is on uneven terrain. Cost is $5. (763-694-7650)

Primitive fire-making

Tettegouche State Park

1-3 p.m. Saturday

This drop-in program at the visitor center shows how to start a fire without matches, lighters or modern tools. You'll see how flint-and-steel, bow drills, magnifiers and other techniques help create a fire. Learn how native mushrooms and fungi make themselves useful in creating a flame. (1-218-353-8809, mndnr.gov/tettegouche)

Family fun day

Richardson Nature Center

3-4 p.m. Sunday

Learn about animals that hibernate during this hands-on program of activities. Drop in anytime. (763-694-7676, threeriversparks.org)

Skate ski lesson

Hyland Lake Park Reserve

9:30-11 a.m. Sunday

Practice efficient edging, gliding and control. Prior classic skiing experience recommended. Cost is $28. Call 763-559-6700 to reserve a spot, or go online to threeriversparks.org.