February 2026

Candlelight Trails

Candlelight Trails

Saturday, February 21, 2026    
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Come enjoy a magical winter night under the moon and stars at Lake Shetek State Park. Let the glow of luminaries guide you on two [...]
Winter's Glow Candlelight Snowshoe

Winter's Glow Candlelight Snowshoe

Saturday, February 21, 2026    
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Meet at the Northern Unit where the Bog Boardwalk is. Experience the magic of a winter evening on a serene snowshoe walk along the Old Caribou Camp Trail illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight. Wander in peace under the starlit sky, surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter. This enchanting woodland experience is perfect for all skill levels, providing a unique way to enjoy the season's tranquility. After your walk, warm up by a cozy campfire and enjoy some refreshments. Bring your own snowshoes or a limited number will be available to borrow, including children's sizes. Meet at the Northern Unit which is 9 miles north of the Ranger Station on HWY 72.
Candlelight Trek

Candlelight Trek

Saturday, February 28, 2026    
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight and moonlight. Hike, snowshoe, or ski the 1-mile trail around Cataract Lake where you will be guided by the almost full moon, and lanterns. The 1.5-mile Hallaway Hill trail will also be illuminated for hikers and snowshoers. Once you have trekked to your hearts content, come warm up by the campfire or enjoy chili and desserts and refreshments in the Trail Center or Picnic Shelter. All provided by the Friends of Maplewood.

March 2026

ALP (Advanced Learning Program): Hydrology

ALP (Advanced Learning Program): Hydrology

Wednesday, March 11, 2026    
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Join the monthly ALP (Advanced Learning Program) at Whitewater program hosted by the Friends of Whitewater State Park! This month we welcome Jeff Green, retired Hydrogeologist. He will be taking us on a journey through the science behind how the surface and subsurface geology effect the way water moves through the landscape. He will be highlighting the unique features that characterize the Driftless region of Minnesota and how they differ from the rest of the state.
Friends of Wild River Annual Meeting and Pancake Breakfast

Friends of Wild River Annual Meeting and Pancake Breakfast

Saturday, March 14, 2026    
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Annual Membership Pancake Breakfast and Meeting. March 14, 9:00-11:00 am. Immanuel Lutheran Church - Almelund MN
Webinar: State of the Trails

Webinar: State of the Trails

Tuesday, March 17, 2026    
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Dive into our State of the Trails report Andrew Oftedal, P&TC's Research & Policy Manager oversaw this extensive research project to create the 2025 State of the Trails Report. He will share some of the behind-the-scenes stories of how the project was conducted. During this lunch-hour webinar, you'll learn how you can make the most of the report. Plus, hear how this report will help us secure necessary funding to rehab state trails this year. Register for Zoom Login

April 2026

Wild Flower Ambassadors

Wild Flower Ambassadors

Saturday, April 18, 2026 - Monday, May 18, 2026    
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
The Friends of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park welcome park visitors to an information stand on the park boardwalk to identify and learn more about [...]
Wild Flower Ambassadors

Wild Flower Ambassadors

Friday, April 24, 2026 - Sunday, May 24, 2026    
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
The Friends of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park welcome park visitors to an information stand on the park boardwalk to identify and learn more about [...]
Wild Flower Ambassadors

Wild Flower Ambassadors

Thursday, April 30, 2026 - Saturday, May 30, 2026    
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
The Friends of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park welcome park visitors to an information stand on the park boardwalk to identify and learn more about [...]

May 2026

Earthfest

Earthfest

Saturday, May 2, 2026    
7:00 am - 3:00 pm
All day Earthfest featuring Bird Walk, Nature Hikes, Exhibitions, and Guest Speakers. This event is hosted by the Friends of Wild River State Park.
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