Trekking for birds
William O'Brien State Park
9-10:30 a.m. Friday
Join Kyle TePoel, a naturalist who has worked with the National Audubon Society and the National Park Service. He has been doing guided bird hikes since 2008. Bring a pair of binoculars, or borrow a pair. The program is for any level of birder. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)
Bird language
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Bloomington
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday
Gather on the slopes to explore what the birds are signaling about our surroundings. The program splits between the classroom and outdoors. Bring a notebook and something to sit on. To register, visit mntracking.org.
Winter camping
William O'Brien State Park
10-11:30 a.m. Saturday
Bear Paulsen, general manager of Northstar Canoes, will teach the basics of winter camping. He'll cover clothing, safety and how to sleep comfortably through a long winter night. He will also discuss how to choose a campsite, shelter options and winter travel from backpacking to pulling a sled through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)
Winter prep
Fort Snelling State Park
1-2 p.m. Saturday
To wildlife, winter is already here. Find out what they have to do to prepare for the season ahead. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)
Clues on the ground
Fort Snelling State Park
1-2 p.m. Sunday
Join the naturalist to learn about the animals that live at the park. We'll look for clues in the dirt or snow to see which animals are still active. Dress for the weather and meet at the visitor center. Call 612-725-2724 to register.
Free family days
3-4 p.m. Sunday
Richardson Nature Center
Explore through hands-on activities. Children 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. (763-694-7676, threeriversparks.org)
Winter at night
Lowry Nature Center
6:30 p.m. Sunday
Dress for the weather and hit a trail. There is a walk on an uneven trail. Cost is $5. (763-694-7640, threeriversparks.org)
Trekking for birds II
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Bloomington
8-10:30 a.m. Sunday
Join a naturalist on a bird walk starting at the Bass Ponds Trailhead. (952-854-5900, bit.ly/mnfwr)
Survival plan
Eastman Nature Center
1-3 p.m. Sunday
Learn about winter survival and build a shelter. All ages are welcome. (763-694-7700, threeriversparks.org)