GET OUT
Skagit Eagle Festival: The month-long celebration is held during eagle-watching season in nearby Skagit County. Events and activities take place in Concrete, Rockport and Marblemount each weekend in January. More at www.concrete-wa.com/skagit-eagle-festival.
Free park-ing: The next day to visit Washington State Parks without an entrance fee is on Jan. 21 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Other free days are March 19 (Washington State Parks’ birthday), April 20 (Spring Day), April 22 (Earth Day), June 1 (National Trails Day), June 8 (National Get Outdoors Day), June 9 (Fishing Day), Aug. 25 (National Park Service’s birthday), Nov. 11 (Veterans Day) and Nov. 29 (Autumn free day). More at www.discoverpass.wa.gov.
Guided snowshoe hikes: Washington State Parks is offering guided snowshoe hikes this winter at Lake Easton Park, a camping park 17 miles east of Snoqualmie Summit. Family-friendly hikes are scheduled for Jan. 26 and 27; and Feb.9, 10, 23 and 24. Bring snowshoes, poles and water, and wear layered clothing and boots for 3 miles of hiking on moderate terrain. Guides will talk about the area’s natural history, teach snowshoeing basics and share safety tips. Meet at 12:30 p.m.at the Lake Easton State Park day-use area at 150 Lake State State Park Road, Easton. Call 509-925-1943.
Arlington-Stillaguamish Eagle Festival: With winter comes the return of the eagle to the Stillaguamish River. The 12th annual festival along Olympic Avenue held Feb. 1-2 includes animal talks, bird walks, river rafting, chainsaw carving, live music and an art show. More at www.arlingtonwa.gov/eaglefest.
Sno-Park permits: Attention snow enthusiasts:Washington State Parks Winter Recreation Program’s Sno-Park permits are available for purchase online and at various vendors statewide through April 30. The permits allow visitors to park in cleared, designated parking lots with access to areas around the state for skiing, skijoring, snowmobiling, dog sledding, snowshoeing, tubing and other winter fun. More at www.parks.state.wa.us/winter.
STAY IN
Waxing workshop: Skis and snowboards should glide across the snow, not drag. Practice waxing skis and snowboards at a hands-on workshop at 6 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Alderwood REI, 3000 18th St. SW, Lynnwood. Learn how to choose the best wax for the conditions and come away with a freshly waxed base that’s ready for the slopes. Cost is $35 for members, $55 for non-members. The space is limited. Call 425-640-6200. More at www.rei.com.
