Wood Lake Nature Center552

This 150-acre natural area is located right off a busy, commercial intersection, but just steps inside the swinging gate, you leave all that behind.

Three miles of trails and boardwalks wind through the park; most are stroller-friendly, but no pets, bikes or skates are allowed. Here, environmentalists study and preserve lowland forest, cattail marsh, restored prairie ... and the creatures who inhabit them. In weekly family programs, classes for preschool ages and up, and summer camps, they share what they know. Wood Lake also offers an independent learning program for homeschoolers.

Inside the 4,000-square-foot interpretive center, children can observe turtles, explore interactive exhibits, or warm themselves by the fireplace. The center also offers creative holiday-themed events, culminating in Candlelight & Ice, when hundreds of candles are set out to illuminate the snow-covered nighttime trail, providing a serene setting for families to ring in the new year. Most programs require pre-registration.

Snowshoe hikes and cross-country ski rental and lessons are offered (weather-permitting). The center's marsh and woodland trails are suitable for beginnners and advanced skiers. Rates & hours for rentals for the 2007-08 season: Mon-Sat 9am-3:30pm; Sun 12:30pm-3:30pm; $3-$6/person (free for members). Weather-permitting, rentals are also offered during Friday Night Lantern-Lit Skiing events.

Kids ages 12 and up are welcome to volunteer during the summer and for special limited-time projects.

Membership ($50/family) not only lets you register for classes and camps before the general public at a discounted price, it also grants you free admission to the fabulous weekly programs on Saturdays and Sundays.

Parties: Age-appropriate themed birthday parties at Wood Lake - best suited to ages four to 12 - include indoor and outdoor activities. Cake and treats can be enjoyed during 45 minutes in the large party room, after 45 minutes on the trails with a center naturalist. Call 612.861.9365 to book. (Richfield residents $75; Non-residents $85. Includes up to 10 children and treat bags; $3.50 each additional child.)