Building Rental / Birthdays and Receptions

The nature center auditorium is available for rent. Wood Lake is
great for birthdays, wedding receptions, meetings, celebrations, and anniversaries. Auditorium rental includes use of the fireplace, seating for 60-80, tables and chairs, and a beautiful view of the marsh.
Non-alcoholic beverages only.

Resident Fee

$35/hour for private party rentals, plus tax
$25/hour for non-profit groups

Non-Resident Fee

$40/hour or private party rentals, plus tax
$25/hour for non-profit groups

Have a green event!
Click here for some suggestions for how to make your event more environmentally-friendly

Naturalist-led Birthdays

Wood Lake offers naturalist-led birthday parties with fun themes for different age groups. 
Click here for pricing and more information.

Other Naturalist-led Programs

Wood Lake naturalists are experienced at leading groups of all ages.  Consider scheduling a time with a naturalist for a hike or program for your group.  Call 612-861-9365 for more details.

Cross Country Ski Information

Ski Trails
For a convenient ski trail close to home, visit Wood Lake! We have two ski trails, 1.8 miles and .8 miles, that wind around the marsh and through the woods. Skis are available for rent. See below for rental hours and prices.

Ski Rental
Alpina cross-country skis are available for rent to use on Wood Lake’s groomed trails.
Monday-Saturday 9:00 am-3:30 pm
Sunday 12:30 pm-3:30 pm
(Skis must be returned to building by 4:30 pm)

FEES
$6 (16-55 years old)
$3 (under 16, over 55)
Free for FOWL members

Friday Night Lantern-Lit Skiing

On Fridays, January 11 through February 22, from 6:00-8:00 pm, a short ski trail (.8 miles) will be lit with lanterns and the building will be open. Ski rental is available or just stop in to warm up. Skiing will be cancelled if conditions are poor. Please call 612-861-9365 before 5:00 pm if conditions are questionable.

Cross-Country Ski Lessons
The friendly and non-competitive approach used by nature center staff provides a comfortable learning environment for beginning skiers. Learn about equipment, how to get up from a fall, uphill techniques, the diagonal stride and double poling. Limit 20 per session. $6/person, free for members.

Saturday, January 19,  3:00-4:30 pm
Sunday, January 27,  1:00-2:30 pm
Sunday, February 10,  1:00-2:30 pm
Saturday, February 16,  10:00-11:30 am

Private Beginner Ski Lessons
Private lessons are available for adults, children, and families. Lessons are 90 minutes and include ski rental. Cost is $70 for 1-5 people. Call 612-861-9365 for more information.