Park Programs

Parks Programs for January and February 2023

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo

The following events take place at Oxbow Park and are subject to change.

Sunday, January 8 at 1:00 pm - Winter Adaptations

Animals have special ways to survive winter. Some adaptations are sleeping the whole winter, flying south to a new destination, or becoming dormant. This program discusses terms of hibernation, migration, dormant and active behaviors for animals to survive winter. Meet at the Nature Center.

Saturday, January 14 at 1:00 pm - Beginning Cross-Country Skiing

Join park staff for a ski through the Oxbow Valley. Bring your own skis or rent skis and boots for $5.00 from Friends of Oxbow.  If you have never skied, this is the time to start on our groomed trails. Recommended ages 5 and up. Snow permitting.

Sunday, January 22 at 11:00 am - Animal Tracks and Signs

Learn how to look for signs and clues of animal life around us. The snow provides a great canvas for animal tracks and various other signs. Meet at the Nature Center and dress to be outside. 

Saturday, January 28 at 11:00 am - The Mitten by Jan Brett Book Stroll

Join a Naturalist on a walk through the zoo reading The Mitten by Jan Brett. As we walk and read, we’ll stop at the exhibits of animals showcased in the story. Meet at the Nature Center.

Sunday, February 5 at 1:00 pm – Wolves in Winter

Learn about the largest canine species in North America. Observe the natural behaviors and social interactions of wolves as you learn about the wolves that live at the Zollman Zoo. Meet at the wolf exhibit.

Saturday, February 11 at 2:00 pm - Mindfulness Hike

Join a Naturalist on a stroll through the park to try out some mindfulness techniques. Learn how being immersed in nature can benefit your health. Meet at the Nature Center, dress warm as we won’t be walking fast or far.

 

Sunday, February 19 at 11:00 am – Deer and Elk Feeding Program

A short hike in the snow to the elk and deer exhibit will allow participants to get a closer look at these spectacular creatures. Learn more about antlers, deer and elk behavior, and see them eat!  (Accommodations CAN be made for those unable to walk over to the exhibit.) Dress for the weather as this is an outdoor program.

Saturday, February 25 at 1:00 pm - Snowshoe with a Naturalist

Experience Oxbow Park as a winter wonderland! Learn the importance of snowshoes and how some animals have their own version of snowshoes. Bring your own or rent snowshoes for $3.00 from Friends of Oxbow. Ages 5 and up. Snow permitting.

Chester Woods Park

The following events take place at Chester Woods Park and are subject to change.

Thursday, January 19th at 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Kicksled Demonstration

Meet at the Kisrow Trail head (near campground entrance) to test out one of these fun and family friendly winter recreation “toys!”  Chester Woods Park has 6 of these sleds that will be available for rent next year, but for now, come and get a sneak peek on how much fun these can be! (Snow permitting)

Monday, February 6th at 6:00 p.m. – Moonlight Snowshoe

Meet at the boat ramp parking lot with staff/volunteers and enjoy a peaceful evening hike through one of the many beautiful trails at Chester Woods Park.  You must provide your own snowshoes; rentals are not available. (Snow permitting)

Saturday, February 18th from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. - 11th Annual Youth Ice Expo

Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. and the tournament begins at 11:00!  There will be many prizes, drawings and trophies for the top finishers.  This event is for youth ages 3-15.  Details can be found on the Project MN Youth Outdoors Facebook page

The following events take place at Root River Park and are subject to change.

There are currently no programs scheduled for January and February 2023.