Eating my share of lutefisk and lefse

This past holiday season was a very good one. I got to eat my share of lutefisk and lefse, which makes it nice, but spending time with family is what really makes it special.

 

The Minnesota DNR has many winter activities available for you to try. Listed here are a few favorite outdoor activities scheduled for this winter:

 

Birdwatching

Winter birding in Minnesota offers a unique opportunity to see species adapted to cold climates, and the quiet, leafless landscapes make it easier to spot birds. Several parks offer free winter birding programs, including Itasca, Lake Bemidji, Minneopa, Nerstrand Big Woods, Wild River and William O’Brien state parks. Find details on the Parks and Trails event calendar at mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

 

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing opens up a whole new side of Minnesota’s state parks and recreation areas. Once the ground freezes and a protective blanket of snow settles in, visitors can roam beyond summer trails to explore quiet backwaters, frozen wetlands and wooded corners that are not accessible in other seasons. Many state parks and recreation areas offer snowshoe rentals for $6 per day. More information about rentals and snowshoe programs, like guided walks and beginner classes, is on the DNR snowshoeing webpage (mndnr.gov/stateparks/snowshoeing.html).

 

Winter hiking

Hiking is a rewarding way to experience winter landscapes while staying active in colder months. Some state parks have plowed or packed trails; these locations are listed on the DNR winter hiking webpage (mndnr.gov/state parks/winter_hiking.html). Plus, visitors can attend special winter hiking events, including first day hikes to start off the new year and family-friendly candlelight events.

 

Cross-country skiing

Groomed ski trails at 22 state parks give beginners and seasoned skiers alike a smooth, quiet route through forests, prairies and lakeshores. Additional groomed trails are available at some state forests and state trails. Skiers ages 16 or older need a Great Minnesota Ski Pass, which costs $10 per day, $25 per year, or $70 for a three-year pass. Find trails and ski pass information at the DNR cross-country ski webpage (mndnr.gov/skiing) and get the latest trail conditions on the DNR’s snow depth and groomed trail conditions page (mndnr.gov/snow)

Until next time: From the reports that I have been hearing, ice fishing has been pretty good on some of our area lakes. It usually takes nothing more than an ice auger, a bucket and some bait and tackle to try your luck.

 

Please take the time to remember our troops that are serving now and those that have served before them. They are the reason that we have all of the Freedoms that we enjoy today.