Cross-country skiing at Minnewaska

Join Nick Martin, park educator, for an approximately 7-mile cross-country ski to Lake Awosting, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, starting from Lake Minnewaska, traveling 3 miles on Upper Awosting Carriage Road to reach the north end of Lake Awosting. On the way, the group will pass through winter woods and the old apple orchard from the Minnewaska resort era, and see an interesting rock formation called Litchfield Ledge, often decorated with icicles. Once arriving at the destination, skiers will take in the long view of Lake Awosting and then return to Lake Minnewaska by the same route. Participants must have prior cross-country ski experience and bring their own equipment. They should also bring weather-appropriate clothing and adequate food and water for the duration of the outing. The fee for skiing on the groomed trails at Minnewaska is $10, $9 per senior and $7 per junior. If there is insufficient snow cover for skiing, this outing will be offered as a hike. Meet at the Wildmere parking area. Preregistration is required by calling Minnewaska State Park Preserve, 5281 Route 44/55, Kerhonkson, at 845-255-0752.

Tuesday Trek: Two-views scenic hike

Enjoy a stimulating and refreshing 2-mile snowshoe hike to two scenic overlooks in the Peter’s Kill Area, which feature stunning views in clear weather, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesday,

Jan. 23. While the distance is relatively short, there are a few moderate hills, which may be difficult for some. The education department has a limited number of snowshoes available for participants to borrow for this program on a first-come, first-served basis. Once those snowshoes are taken, snowshoes may be rented from the Park Preserve for $5 per person for the program only. All snowshoes are kept at the Peter’s Kill Area, and early arrival is suggested to borrow or rent them. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and the hiking destination may change. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Peter’s Kill Area. Preregistration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.

Snowshoe hike

Enjoy a stimulating and refreshing 2-mile snowshoe hike to two scenic overlooks in the Peter’s Kill Area, which feature stunning views in clear weather, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28. While the distance is relatively short, there are a few moderate hills, which may be difficult for some. The education department has a limited number of snowshoes available for participants to borrow for this program on a first-come, first-served basis. Once those snowshoes are taken, snowshoes may be rented from the Park Preserve for $5 per person for the program only. All snowshoes are kept at the Peter’s Kill Area and early arrival is suggested if you would like to borrow or rent them. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and the hiking destination may change. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Peter’s Kill Park Area. Preregistration required; call 845-255-0752.

Mohonk Preserve cross-country ski   

With leader Marty Carp, the group will cross-country ski on the best available trails for this 7- to 11-mile trip beginning at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 2, at Mohonk Preserve. Bring a hot drink, water, lunch, snacks and an extra pair of gloves. Meet at the Spring Farm parking lot. If no snow, then hiking may happen. Do not forget the $15 fee if not already a member of Mohonk Preserve.

Preregister with Carp at 845-303-3764 or martymcarp@gmail.com.