First Friday Hike

Friday, Jan. 3, from 1-2:30 p.m.

Meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center

Grab some snowshoes and head down the trail with a park naturalist and explore winter.  Route will be selected depending on snow conditions. All experience levels are welcome!

NOTES: A limited number of snowshoes are available to use during this program. Contact naturalist Sandra if you need to reserve a pair at Sandra.d.lichter@state.mn.us or (218) 699-7252. This snowshoe walk is dependent on snow depth. If there is not enough snow, it will become a snow boot walk. Dress in layers and wear snow boots.

Circle Time Under the Pines: C is for Chickadees

Wednesday, Jan. 8, from 11-11:45 a.m.

Meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center (look for the big building under the big pine trees.)

Children 2-5 years old, come explore Itasca as we learn about nature through stories, songs, crafts, and outdoor discovery. Bring your outdoor clothes as we will be outside exploring nature if weather allows.

NOTES: Adults must accompany children. Consider bringing a picnic lunch and enjoying your noon meal around the fireplace in the visitor center lobby after the program.

Annual Lantern Light Ski and Snowshoe event

Lantern Light Event

Saturday, Jan. 11, from 5-7:30 p.m.

Starting at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center

Please join organizers for the annual Lantern Light Event at Itasca State Park. Bundle up to walk, snowshoe, or ski at your leisure as glowing lanterns guide your way through towering pines under expansive, starry skies. The total length of this out-and-back trail is 3.5 miles following the South Entrance Road. It is a well-defined path with minimal elevation change. Adjust the distance to suit your fitness level. There will be a campfire crackling at the trailhead to warm-up or roast your favorite campfire snack. Gather inside the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center for refreshments and music.

Snowshoe and Ski rentals: If snowpack allows, snowshoe and ski rentals will be available from Itasca Sports while supplies last. The Itasca Sports winter rental shop will be open inside the Forest Inn located near the Douglas Lodge before and during the event. Adult and youth sizes are available.

NOTES: A Minnesota state parks vehicle permit is required on all vehicles in the park. A Minnesota Ski Pass is required for all skiers over 16 years old. Purchase permits and passes at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center when visitors arrive or purchase them online in advance. Pets are not allowed on groomed ski trails or inside park buildings.

A Beginner’s Guide to Snowshoeing

Saturday, Jan. 18, from 1-2 p.m.

Meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center Classroom

Looking for a fun, winter activity that will get people outside? Enjoy the beauty of winter on snowshoes. This beginner’s class will teach you the basics of snowshoeing as well as great places to visit in Itasca while wearing snowshoes. This program is dependent on snowfall.

What to Bring: Dress warmly in layers and include snow boots. The program will be outside on the trail trying out some new skills. Reserve a pair of snowshoes or bring your own snowshoes. Email Naturalist Sandra at Sandra.d.lichter@state.mn.us or call (218) 699-7252 to reserve a pair of snowshoes.

Kid’s Science Discovery: Animal Tracks and Sign

Thursday, Jan. 23, from 1:30-2:15 p.m.

Meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center

Kids, explore different animal’s tracks and the stories they tell. Science Discovery programs are geared for students looking to take the classroom outside. Itasca is a wonderful outdoor learning space to explore the natural world.

What to Bring: This program will include going outdoors if weather allows, so plan for the weather. Dress in layers and wear snow boots.

Beginning Birding with Birds in Your Backyard

Saturday, Jan. 25, from 10:30-11:15 a.m.

Meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center Classroom

Come learn some easy tips on how to identify some common winter birds. Also, explore how to attract these birds to your own backyard.