1 Rising waters photo hike

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Saturday.

The rising waters of spring mean excellent photo opportunities. A volunteer naturalist will lead photographers on an exploration of the refuge's site near the old Cedar Avenue Bridge, in Bloomington, which was notorious for flooding every spring. Bring your own camera and tripod. More information: www.fws.gov/refuge/minnesota_valley.

2 Bears: black, brown and polar

Lake Maria State Park, 1-2 p.m. Sunday.

Join naturalist and photographer Stan Tekiela for this lesson on North American bears. Learn about the creature's habits and lifestyles while enjoying some of Stan's bear photos. More information: 763-878-2325 or www.mndnr.gov.

3 Nature and Nordic walking

Cleary Lake Regional Park, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday.

Learn to use Nordic walking poles for exercise and burning calories. This class is the first in a seven-week Nordic walking series at Cleary Lake Regional Park. $5 per class or $30 for the series. Reservation required; 763-559-6700. More information: www.threerivers parks.org.

4 Fly-fishing workshop

Lebanon Hills Regional Park, 6-8 p.m. Tuesday.

Join the Fly Fishing Women of Minnesota for this introductory lesson on fly-fishing, casting techniques and fly tying. Ages 16-plus. $30. This program is available again April 15. More information: www.co.dakota.mn.us/parks.

5 Fly-fishing for beginners

Whitewater State Park, 7 p.m. April 11.

This four-session class (April 11, 18, 25 and May 2) is designed for those with serious interest in learning to fly fish. Participants must supply their own fly-fishing equipment by the third session. Some equipment is available on loan. A fishing license and trout stamp are required, plus the course fee of $20. Registration required; 1-507-932-3007, ext. 226 or sara.grover@state.mn.us. More information: www.mndnr.gov.