Weekend programs at state and regional parks by ski and snowshoe

Cleary Lake Regional Park, 4-5:30 p.m. Friday

Explore and search for animal tracks and warm up with hot cocoa afterward. Cost is $6. (763-694-7777, threeriversparks.org)

Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday

Hhike near the Mississippi River. Beginners welcome. Cost is $5. (763-694-7790)

Family ski lesson

Elm Creek Park Reserve, 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday

Cost varies, depending on age and rental needs. For reservations, call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #122271-09.

Learn cross-country skiing basics, from proper equipment fitting, diagonal stride, stopping, turning, to a brief introduction to small hills. For novice skiers and those wanting a review. Cost is $24 and $36 with ski rental. Reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #122265-10.

(threeriversparks.org).

Wild River State Park, 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Join the park naturalist for a hike. The walk travels the river terrace loop and stops at the Nevers Dam site. (651-583-2125, mndnr.gov)

• Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

Join fellow winter enthusiasts to listen for the barred owl and other night sounds along two miles of flat, lighted trails with shorter loops suitable for kids and beginners. Young families are encouraged to come at twilight just as it is getting dark; bring a sled to pull youngsters on designated walking/snowshoe trails. (1-507-333-4840, friendsnerstrandbigwoods.org)

• Afton State Park

5-8 p.m. Saturday

Hike along a two-mile trail lit with candle luminaria, warm up around campfires and enjoy some hot refreshments. (651-436-5391, mndnr.gov)

• Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

Enjoy skiing by the light of the moon and candles. Two separate routes will be lit. A shuttle bus will run continuously between the trail center and the interpretive center. Ski rental ($10/day for skis, boots and poles) is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Two half-mile snowshoeing trails will start at the Interpretive Center. (1-320-532-3269)

Fort Snelling State Park, 1-3 p.m. Sunday