Outdoor notes

WINTER SERIES AT WASATCH PARK

Every Saturday, beginning Dec. 18 through March, except holidays, Wasatch Mountain State Park will host a series of winter programs from 10 a.m. to noon. Programs focus on recreation, resource protection, ecology, geology and history and include indoor discussions and outdoor snowshoe hike/walks. Bring snowshoes or rent a pair at the park for $4 for adult sizes and $2 for children. Programs are for families or individuals ages six and older. To register or for more information call 435-654-1791.

JORDANELLE WINTER PROGRAMS

Staff from Rock Cliff Nature Center at Jordanelle State Park will host two programs this winter.

Each Saturday beginning Dec. 18 to March 12, except Christmas and New Year's Day, from 10 a.m. to noon, park naturalists will teach basic tracking skills necessary to understanding local wildlife. Those attending will need to bring snowshoes or borrow a pair from the park.

T.R.A.C.K.S., a program for children 3 to 5, will be held on the first and third Fridays of each month throughout the winter from 10 to 11 a.m. All preschool children and their parents or teachers are invited to attend. T.R.A.C.K.S. — Trees, Rocks and Animals Captivate Kids Spirits — is a program intended to spark preschoolers' interest in nature.

Pre-registration is required. Day-use fee is $7 per vehicle with up to eight people or free to Utah State Park pass holders. Rock Cliff Nature Center is located 7.5 miles east of Heber City on Highway 32 near Francis. For more information call 435-782-3030 or 435-649-9540.

HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES AT WILLARD

Willard Bay State Park will host Fantasy at the Bay, a drive-through holiday light display through Jan. 1. Display hours are 5:30 to 10 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday.

Admission is $5 per vehicle. Utah State Park passes are not valid during the hours of the light display.

The Cottonwood Campground is filled with animation, lighted trees, roadway lights and displays. A concession service will offer hot chocolate, chili and other items to be served around a large campfire on Friday, Saturday and Monday nights. The Box Elder County Centennial Train runs every Saturday and Monday nights. Cost is $2 per person. To reach Willard Bay State Park, take exit 360 off I-15. For more information call 435-734-9494.

OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE SAFETY

Officials at Utah State Parks and Recreation encourage all off-highway vehicle operators to prepare early for a safe and enjoyable winter season.