Events:

Ice fishing is sponsored by the Bigfork Volunteer Fire Department. A youth fishing clinic will be on the ice between noon and 1 p.m. followed by a family fishing derby from 1-3 p.m. Minnows will be donated by Sharp’s Bait. There is a registration fee for those 16 and over; fishing regulations apply. The grand door prize will be a Vexilar FL-8se Genz Box fish finder.

The classic ski loppet race will begin promptly at 1:30 p.m. Participants should arrive at the park by 12:30 p.m. to allow enough time to register, drive to the start and change into gear. The trail begins on the lake and winds 4.5 miles through the forest on a scenic groomed trail of varying difficulty. All participants will receive an event pin. There is a fee for those 16 and up, but state park cross country ski passes are sponsored by Bigfork Valley if needed.

Free clinics on winter survival and cold weather activities will be ongoing through the afternoon, including a curling clinic sponsored by the Itasca Curling Club, skating on a large rink (limited number of youth skates available for use), a sled dog exhibit and a Wellness display.

At 4:30 p.m. the Bigfork Valley Foundation will draw winners for the event raffle. Tickets are available at Bigfork Valley or area businesses.

Food:

Always hungry after an outdoor activity? At the lodge there will be a chili/soup meal, hot chocolate and coffee, and s’mores and hot dogs to roast on an outdoor bonfire. At the ice fishing contest, enjoy grilled hot dogs and hot drinks. All food is available for a freewill donation.

For more information, see www.bigforkvalley.org, click on “Winter Challenge.” Printable registration forms may be filled out in advance and brought to the park. In case of extreme cold, the event will be cancelled. Call the park at 743-3362 or listen to area radio stations.