2020 Winter WOW-Lake Metigoshe State Park (Bottineau, ND)

The two dorm facilities at Lake Metigoshe State Park are large rooms with bunk style beds. One dorm will be for late nighters, the other for early risers. There are no assignments-just claim a bunk upon arrival as there is plenty of room! Those staying in dorms will need to provide their own towels, bedding and toiletries. Consider bringing slip-on shoes for walking to and from the adjacent comfort stations, which is where flushing toilets, sinks, and showers are located.

The two dorm facilities at Lake Metigoshe State Park are large rooms with bunk style beds. One dorm will be for late nighters, the other for early risers. There are no assignments-just claim a bunk upon arrival as there is plenty of room! Those staying in dorms will need to provide their own towels, bedding and toiletries. Consider bringing slip-on shoes for walking to and from the adjacent comfort stations, which is where flushing toilets, sinks, and showers are located.

Those with dietary needs or issues, please contact [email protected] to be accommodated.

Those with dietary needs or issues, please contact [email protected] to be accommodated.

Those with dietary needs or issues, please contact [email protected] to be accommodated. If you are spearfishing, lunch will be a boxed lunch to be picked up in the morning by the group as lunch will be eaten on the ice.

Those with dietary needs or issues, please contact [email protected] to be accommodated.

Those with dietary needs or issues, please contact [email protected] to be accommodated.

Those with dietary needs or issues, please contact [email protected] to be accommodated. If you are spearfishing, lunch will be a boxed lunch to be picked up in the morning by the group as lunch will be eaten on the ice.

Tubing At the Bottineau Winter Park (Outdoors-Easy/Moderate)
Feel like a kid again and experience all the thrills of sledding and tubing without the long hike back up the hill! Grab a tube and have an absolute blast speeding down your choice of several tubing lanes at the Bottineau Winter Park. Participants will meet and leave from the dining hall at 6:15pm prior to driving themselves approximately 9 miles to the Bottineau Winter Park.

Custom Fishing Rod Building (Indoors-Easy)
Instructor: Chuck DeRemer (Chuck’s Custom Fishing Rods)
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to build your own custom fishing rod! We’ll cover the basics of building a rod including proper design and construction. In addition, we’ll discuss proper maintenance and simple repairs. Registration fees cover basic materials and instruction; upgrades will be available during the session for additional fee(s). Due to drying time, fishing rods will need to be picked up on Sunday morning. This activity continues through Session II and III.

Cache Creation (Indoors-Easy)
Instructor: Pam Ihmels
It’s just as fun, if not more fun, to create and hide geocaches as it is to find them! Learn some tips and tricks related to cache creation to include how to put together a creative cache that others would find interesting, how to officially register new caches and how to maintain them. We’ll be assisting Lake Metigoshe State Park by creating their newest geocache for their park visiting cachers to find!

Alpine & X-C Ski Maintenance (Indoors-Easy)
Instructors: Scott Johannsen and Conner Oliver (Scheels Experts)
Skiers all generally tend to wax and rune skis differently. Take in this hands-on opportunity to learn from SCHEELS Experts how to better maintain your skis which will maximize your experiences on future alpine and x-country skiing adventures. We’ll be discussing the varieties of waxes that can be utilized and the variables that should be considered when deciding which wax is best you, the conditions and your skis.

Owl Prowl on Snowshoes! (Outdoors-Moderate)
Instructor: Erika Kolbow (ND Parks & Recreation Department)
Who's who? Venture out into the darkness on snowshoes to see what feathered friends are in the neighborhood. We will be discussing local owls and doing some activities to better understand their adaptations. Dress for the dropping evening temperatures and bring a headlamp!

Introduction to Downhill Skiing (Outdoors-Moderate/Arduous)
Instructors: Bottineau Winter Park (BWP) Staff
This day-long experience includes rental equipment, lift ticket, approximately an hour of lessons and time on the slopes. In addition, an onsite lunch (choice of chicken sandwich, burger or chicken strips with a small order of fries and a drink) so no need to register for a lunch or leave the BWP to snag a bite. Please come prepared and dressed for changing weather conditions. Participants are highly encouraged to stop by the BWP on Friday, February 21 between 12pm and 9pm to get fitted for equipment so it can be set aside ahead of the Saturday crowds. Participants are responsible for their own travel from Lake Metigoshe State Park to the BWP which is about 9 miles. Please arrive at the BWP at 9:30am; 9am if you are unable to get fitted on Friday. Ski lesson starts at 10am. This activity continues through Session III; participants are able to ski until their 5:00pm closing time.

Darkhouse Spearfishing (Indoors/Outdoors-Easy)
Instructors: Jeff Long (ND Game & Fish Department), Tighe Teets, Cody Clemenson, Al Burgard, Bob Olson and Jacob Krause
Learn how to harvest Northern Pike by cutting a large hole in the ice and dropping a weighted spear. We’ll discuss needed gear, teach you how to set up, spend time fishing and hopefully fillet fish to get a taste of the day’s catch! Equipment provided. Dressing in layers is highly recommended. Fish houses will be heated, but participants need to be wear insulated winter boots, coats, snow pants/insulated overalls, etc. for frequent indoor/outdoor trips. A primitive vault toilet available nearby. We’ll wrap up in a heated shop where we’ll hopefully be able to demonstrate how to fillet the day’s catch, providing an opportunity for all to try fresh fish and to bag fillets to take home. Participants are not required to purchase a fishing license for this event as it is an educational event, unless they’ve spearfished at prior event. All participants need to register at https://gf.nd.gov/fishing/darkhouse-spearfishing. Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Participants need to either register for lunch (boxed lunch for those spearfishing) or bring their own food/drink as lunch will be taken on the ice! Participants required to drive/carpool approximately 6 miles to/on a nearby lake. This activity continues through Session III.

Fur Handling (Indoors-Moderate)
Instructors: Stephanie Tucker (ND Game & Fish Dept.) and Chad Tucker
Make the most of your catch by learning how to properly skin, flesh, stretch and get the fur ready to sell or tan for garment use or décor. Please consider wearing clothes you don’t mind getting dirty as well as comfortable shoes. The day will consist of a lot of standing as you work. Critters will be provided! This activity continues through Session III.

Intro to X-Country Skiing (Outdoors-Moderate/Arduous)
Instructors: Terri Lundberg, Lisa Kudelka and Katie Schlafke
This intro is for beginners, but all skill levels are welcome! We’ll go over the basics before setting out onto groomed trails within the state park. We’ll start out with some history and discuss equipment. Participants will learn how to get fitted for skis, boots and poles in addition prior to getting some tips and tricks related to staying upright as well as how to fall and get back up! Please dress in layers; depending upon the weather, you will appreciate being able to layer up or down. Equipment is provided. Registered participants that have their own skis are welcome to bring their own or utilize provided equipment.

Wild Game Processing (Indoors-Easy)
Instructors: Kate & Kraig Motzko
Processing your own wild game can seem daunting, but once you learn how you will never want to stop! Let us show you how fun and easy it is to turn that freezer full of animals into delicious snacks for you and your family to enjoy. We will go through proper techniques and common tools of the trade to successfully process and cook your wild game. This will be a hands-on activity as we will be cooking and sampling from several different animal groups including big game, waterfowl, and fish. Please bring a copy of your favorite wild game recipe, if you have one.

Beanies ‘Round The Fire (Indoor-Easy)
Instructor: Elisha Mueller
Gather ‘round the fireplace to learn the basics of crocheting and, if time allows, finish a beanie you can wear to keep warm the remainder of the weekend! You will need to purchase and bring two skeins of bulky yarn (weight- 5 ply) of your color/pattern choice and an 8mm crocheting hook (size L).

Sun Mountain Wilderness First Aid Mini-Course (Indoor-Easy)
Instructors: Dr. Jon Solberg with guest Dr. Agnieszka Solberg
Have confidence knowing you are more prepared in your outdoor adventures by obtaining this hands-on wilderness first aid training. You will leave with a basic adventure kit and skills to treat minor injuries. You will also learn to recognize some life threatening injuries and how to transport yourself or your loved one to an area accessible by EMS. In the wilderness, luck favors the prepared.

Snowshoeing and Wildlife Scatting Adventure
(Indoor/Outdoor-Moderate)
Instructors: Patsy & Randy Crooke
This beginner course will introduce you to a few different types of snowshoes as well as some history behind them. Find out how to choose the right snowshoes for  your needs and wants before strapping on a pair and exploring Lake Metigoshe State Park. You will learn what proper clothing and equipment is needed in order to enjoy the outdoors on your snowshoes. You will have opportunities to look for wildlife tracks and signs and learn about their winter habits while enjoying some amazing views! It is very important to dress in layers and have a good winter boot that is waterproof and insulated. Be prepared to be worn out! Snowshoe equipment is proved but if you have your own, feel free to bring them. Ski poles might be a good asset, too.

Arm Knitting (Indoors-Easy)
Instructor: Julie Thompson
Learn the basics of arm knitting and complete your own super-soft, chunky cowl. Ideal for beginners! No prior knitting knowledge is necessary. Makes a great gift for yourself or someone else. Those taking this session will need to purchase and bring two skeins of bulky weight yarn (#6)(106 yards each skein). Feel free to get your favorite color or combination of colors. Come prepared to use your arms instead of knitting needles!

In The Right Direction (Indoor/Outdoors-Easy)
Instructor: Molly Skadsen (ND Parks & Recreation Department)
What would you do if you were lost without your phone or a GPS unit? Would you know what direction to go? If your answer is no, then this class is for you! We will begin with a discussion about the basics of orienteering and how to use a map and compass. Then we will head outdoors to test our knowledge on an orienteering course.

Bringing it Home (Indoors-Easy)
Instructor: Erika Kolbow (ND Parks & Recreation Department)
Ever learn great information but have a hard time adapting it to teach it to your friends and family? We will be doing nature-based activities, crafts, methods and resources to help you bring what you've learned back home.

Grit in the Wild (Indoor-Easy)
Instructor: Dr. Agnieszka Solberg (Founder of RadChicks)
Are you feeling two weeks behind and overwhelmed in your job and life?  Don’t have enough time for yourself or relationships?  Prepare yourself to recognize, understand, and tackle social expectations as well as pressures in the wild and within our daily lives. Identify steps and learn research proven ways to become more resilient and develop some grit! Walk out the door with actionable tasks to reduce burnout and improve happiness and resilience in and out of the wilderness.

Fat Tire Biking Adventure (Indoor/Outdoor-Moderate/Arduous)
Instructors: Laurie Steinhaus and Shawna Brown (Turtle Mountain Trails Association)
Bring your headlamp and a sense of adventure! We’ll start out briefly indoors discussing various options of fat bikes and variables that should be considered when it comes time to potentially purchasing one. Afterwards, we’ll take to the trails in the northwest portion of the park that is specifically groomed for fat biking as a result of a collaboration between the Turtle Mountain Trails Association and Lake Metigoshe State Park.

Warm Winter Yoga (Indoors-Easy/Moderate)
Instructor: Crystal Grenier (Intentional Fitness with Crystal)
It’s time to practice restoration and introspection to promote wellness, self-discipline and overall good health. Our session will start with an Ayurvedic (the sister science to yoga) overview of the dosha Kapha, and how to adapt our daily habits, yoga practice and food choices to stay in balance, followed by a mellow flowing movement (Hatha yoga) and breath work that will warm the body and prepare you to rest more fully in Restorative Yoga. Bring a mat, blanket and water….the rest will be provided. There will be several extra mats available.

Outdoor Survival Techniques & Tools (Indoors/Outdoors-Easy)
Instructors: Shubham Datta and Thomas Marrs (DCB Wildlife Club)
This will be a great opportunity to check out some gear, use some tools and test your skills! Participants will learn the basics surrounding setting up camp to include setting up a canvas tent, splitting wood, fire starting methods and there will be discussions surrounding various equipment to better establish what fits you and your needs in order to survive the great outdoors.

Self-Guided Night X-C Ski (Outdoors-Easy/Moderate/Arduous)
Bring your headlamp, a map and a sense of adventure to explore the park after dark. Equipment will be provided; those that have their own equipment do not need to register for this specific activity as this is simply an equipment rental opportunity for those that are interested. For safety reasons, there will be a participant list displayed for participants to check their names off of once off the trails; participants are requested to return gear no later than 8:45pm.

Self-Guided Snowshoe (Outdoors-Easy/Moderate/Arduous)
Bring your headlamp, a map and a sense of adventure to explore the park after dark. Equipment will be provided; those that have their own equipment do not need to register for this specific activity as this is simply an equipment rental opportunity for those that are interested. For safety reasons, there will be a participant list displayed for participants to check their names off of once off the trails; participants are requested to return gear no later than 8:45pm.

Darkhouse Spearfishing (Indoors/Outdoors-Easy)
Instructors: Jeff Long (ND Game & Fish Department), Tighe Teets, Cody Clemenson, Al Burgard, Bob Olson and Jacob Krause
Learn how to harvest Northern Pike by cutting a large hole in the ice and dropping a weighted spear. We’ll discuss needed gear, teach you how to set up, spend time fishing and hopefully fillet fish to get a taste of the day’s catch! Equipment provided. Dressing in layers is highly recommended. Fish houses will be heated, but participants need to be wear insulated winter boots, coats, snow pants/insulated overalls, etc. for frequent indoor/outdoor trips. A primitive vault toilet available nearby. We’ll wrap up in a heated shop where we’ll hopefully be able to demonstrate how to fillet the day’s catch, providing an opportunity for all to try fresh fish and to bag fillets to take home. Participants are not required to purchase a fishing license for this event as it is an educational event, unless they’ve spearfished at prior event. All participants need to register at https://gf.nd.gov/fishing/darkhouse-spearfishing. Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Participants need to either register for lunch (boxed lunch for those spearfishing) or bring their own food/drink as lunch will be taken on the ice! Participants required to drive/carpool approximately 6 miles to/on a nearby lake. Spearfishing is a day-long activity that will wrap up around 4:30pm.

Advanced X-Country Skiing (Outdoors-Moderate/Arduous)
Instructors: Emily Mercer & Lisa Kudelka
Add to your basic skills by learning different x-country skiing techniques. Take some time to try those techniques as you go through a winter wonderland. This outing is for those that have experience cross-country skiing and are ready for a more advanced and longer adventure out on the trail system. Please dress in layers as you’ll appreciate layering up or down. Equipment is provided, but you are welcome to bring your own!

Sun Mountain Wilderness First Aid Mini-Course (Indoor-Easy)
Instructors: Dr. Jon Solberg with guest Dr. Agnieszka Solberg
Have confidence knowing you are more prepared in your outdoor adventures by obtaining this hands-on wilderness first aid training. You will leave with a basic adventure kit and skills to treat minor injuries. You will also learn to recognize some life threatening injuries and how to transport yourself or your loved one to an area accessible by EMS. In the wilderness, luck favors the prepared.

Find Your Winter Balance and Get Those Wheels Rolling! (Indoors/Outdoors-Moderate)
Instructors: Crystal Grenier (Intentional Fitness with Crystal) and Drs. Michael & Jadian Mack (True North Chiropractic)
These folks are teaming up for an awesome opportunity! Crystal will assist you in finding your winter balance through Turtle Mountain air and through snowshoe yoga! Be PRESENT in the serenity of the outdoors through walking mindful meditation and yoga poses to create YOUR total experience. The adventure will start with trail hiking to warm the body, stopping along the way to begin our yoga practice. More trail hiking will lead to more yoga-ing. The trail will meander back to enjoy some hot tea and energy bites where Drs. Michael & Jadian will teach you strategies to balance the different “spokes” of your life including social, financial, health and spiritual well-being to get your wheels rolling towards a more fulfilled life. After evaluating yourself, you’ll know better how our wheel rolls! Snowshoes will be provided, but those that have their own are welcome to bring them.

Spearfishing Decoys: Build It, Swim It, Spear It! (Indoors-Easy)
Instructor: Melissa Shockman
Getting out on a frozen lake, peering over into a giant hole in the ice, and seeing northern pike focus in on a spearfishing decoy is a thrill that everyone should experience….BUT what is that decoy is something YOU made? Add to the excitement of your spearing adventures or learn a new craft obsession by joining in on the art of making your very own working spearfishing decoy! You will get to learn the step-by-step process of creating a working decoy, construct and design your own wooden decoy with woodworking power tools, then build and craft it into a functional spearfishing decoy and a beautiful piece of art!

Self-Guided Fat Tire Bike (Outdoors-Moderate)
Grab a map and bring your sense of adventure to explore the park on your own. Fat bikes and helmets will be provided; those that have their own fat tire biking equipment do not need to register for this specific activity as this is simply an equipment rental opportunity for those that are interested. For safety reasons, there will be a participant list displayed for participants to check their names off of once off the trails; participants are requested to return gear no later than 12:00pm

This ladies long sleeve t-shirt has a classic fit and is cut to contour the body, yet leaves some room to move. The bottom is slightly rounded. It has ribbed cuffs and collar in addition to a double-stitched hem. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in sizes S-2XL.

This ladies long sleeve t-shirt has a classic fit and is cut to contour the body, yet leaves some room to move. The bottom is slightly rounded. It has ribbed cuffs and collar in addition to a double-stitched hem. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in sizes S-2XL.

This ladies long sleeve t-shirt has a classic fit and is cut to contour the body, yet leaves some room to move. The bottom is slightly rounded. It has ribbed cuffs and collar in addition to a double-stitched hem. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in sizes S-2XL.

This ladies long sleeve t-shirt has a classic fit and is cut to contour the body, yet leaves some room to move. The bottom is slightly rounded. It has ribbed cuffs and collar in addition to a double-stitched hem. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in sizes S-2XL.

This ladies long sleeve t-shirt has a classic fit and is cut to contour the body, yet leaves some room to move. The bottom is slightly rounded. It has ribbed cuffs and collar in addition to a double-stitched hem. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in sizes S-2XL.

This unisex long sleeve hooded t-shirt also has a classic fit that somewhat contours the body, yet leaves room to move. There is a front pouch pocket and contrasting drawcords. This shirt is great to take off a chill or wear with layers under a vest. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in XS-2XL.

This unisex long sleeve hooded t-shirt also has a classic fit that somewhat contours the body, yet leaves room to move. There is a front pouch pocket and contrasting drawcords. This shirt is great to take off a chill or wear with layers under a vest. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in XS-2XL.

This unisex long sleeve hooded t-shirt also has a classic fit that somewhat contours the body, yet leaves room to move. There is a front pouch pocket and contrasting drawcords. This shirt is great to take off a chill or wear with layers under a vest. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in XS-2XL.

This unisex long sleeve hooded t-shirt also has a classic fit that somewhat contours the body, yet leaves room to move. There is a front pouch pocket and contrasting drawcords. This shirt is great to take off a chill or wear with layers under a vest. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in XS-2XL.

This unisex long sleeve hooded t-shirt also has a classic fit that somewhat contours the body, yet leaves room to move. There is a front pouch pocket and contrasting drawcords. This shirt is great to take off a chill or wear with layers under a vest. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in XS-2XL.

This unisex long sleeve hooded t-shirt also has a classic fit that somewhat contours the body, yet leaves room to move. There is a front pouch pocket and contrasting drawcords. This shirt is great to take off a chill or wear with layers under a vest. This 4.7 oz shirt is 50% polyester, 37% cotton and 13% rayon. Available in XS-2XL.