WOODSTOCK – McHenry County Conservation District areas offer families opportunities to explore the outdoors this winter.

• Cross country skiing: More than 24 miles of trails are available on district sites. Set out on your own or join the district’s staff at one of the candlelight skis in January and February. Once there is 4 inches of packed snow, some trails are groomed. For site condition updates, visit www.mccdistrict.org.

• Hike or ski: These activities can be done until 9 p.m. every day now through March 10 on the Solar Lit Trails at Pleasant Valley, Woodstock (half-mile beginner loop) or Hickory Grove Highlands, Cary (1.25-mile intermediate loop). Visitors should sign in and out at the trail head.