Not to jinx anything, but it’s very possible winter hibernation time is drawing to a close here in Minnesota. Where better to ease back into the world than nature? Here are 10 ideas to help you feel the air, smell the earth, and have a good time doing it.

The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway

Stretch your weary winter legs for 51 miles of biking — or walking — on the trail that loops Minneapolis and its many natural wonders. Tackle it all in one day or plan for several outings along our many tree-lined shores, from Lake Nokomis to Wirth Lake to West River Parkway. Plot your trip on The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway here.

Farmers Markets

May is generally when the colorful collection of stands begins to liven up a parking lot near you. If you’re impatient for fresh pickings, the Mill City Farmers Market continues winter programming on April 9 and 23. Neighborhood Roots in South Minneapolis has a winter market on April 16, and the Saint Paul Farmers Market opens to greet spring on April 23. Find statewide selections at Minnesota Grown’s Directory.

Tracking the Pack 

In another life, you could have been a wolf biologist who spends their days scanning for paw prints and listening to a howling chorus. The International Wolf Center in Ely can help bring the fantasy to life for a weekend (more info). On April 9-10, learn about wolf research and management and the tools biologists use to study and locate animals. Then head out into the north woods to test your skills using telemetry equipment in search of wolves in the area. $135 for non-members. Lodging and breakfast provided.

Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary

It’s never a bad idea to wander the oldest public wildflower garden in the nation. Nestled in Minneapolis’s Theodore Wirth Park, Eloise Butler is home to over 130 bird species and 500 plant species, some of which you can’t find elsewhere in populated regions, such as the pink lady’s slipper, AKA Minnesota’s state flower. In-person programming, including birding tours and story time, will resume April 15 until October 15. More info here.

Arbor Day

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board brings tree-hugging to the next level with its award-winning annual festival — this year in downtown Minneapolis’ North Loop neighborhood. On April 29, participants can help arborists plant a tree or two, play some tree-themed games, and create tree-inspired art while enjoying live music, food trucks, and a beer garden. Free.

Mid West Music Fest

HALEY and POLICA headline Winona’s annual regional music blowout April 29-30; this year features more than 70 artists. Throughout the weekend, performers grace multiple locations in Winona’s downtown. To help festival-goers game plan, organizers have rolled out a brand new MWMF App with a handy schedule, map, and flagged special activities and venues. $70 two-day pass.

See also: A Minnesota music fan's guide to big April concerts

May Markets at the Arb

This May, see what’s blooming and shop around 60 local artists and artisans at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. An installation from Plymouth-based The Rainflower Project of handmade ceramic flowers dedicated to those grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide. $15 for non-members.

Belwin Bison Festival

The prodigal bison are back! Every year, Belwin Conservancy hosts a herd from NorthStar Bison on their prairie about half an hour’s drive east of the Twin Cities. To celebrate, Belwin is hosting activities on May 21 with live music — including sets from the Riddle Brothers, Sarah Greer, and Dean Magaw — “eco-arts,” plant sales, and even a 5k “Run with the Bison” (bison not included). The herd will arrive around noon. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Belwin Conservancy, Afton. $10.

Revival Festival

On May 27-29, Harmony Park’s serene canopy of old-growth oaks will be electrified by the ecstatic jamming of The String Cheese Incident (playing six sets!), who headline this music-filled weekend in southern Minnesota. Founded in 1996, the Park has a long history of sustainable land stewardship and festival goers tent camp at night and spend all day outside along Lake Geneva. Tickets and info here.

Music in the Parks Kick-Off

Summer can’t start without the sound of tunes wafting from the Lake Harriet Bandshell. On May 30, the highly-anticipated series begins with a doubleheader featuring local classic country rockers Top Shelf from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Big Mike’s Retro Soul & The Westside Horns at 7:30 p.m. Food trucks and beer will be in abundance. Catch other players and cinematic selections throughout the summer at the bandshell, Nicollet Island Park, Minnehaha Park, and Bryant Square Park. Full schedule here.

This feature is part of The Current’s 89 Days of Spring series, helping you enjoy the best of the season with weekly guides to events, entertainment, and recreation in the Twin Cities.