Fall paddle
East (Mississippi) River Flats
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday
Paddle "the gorge" — the only natural canyon on the full length of the Mississippi River — with Wilderness Inquiry. The trip ends at the Sand Flats off West River Parkway. Return transportation is provided. Cost is $45 for adults; $30 for 17 and younger. Registration is online only. (wildernessinquiry.org)
Otter Trotter 5K
Wild River State Park
10 a.m. Saturday
Walk or run at the event. Registration is available on the day of the race. Cost is $25 ($35 with T-shirt, while supplies last). All proceeds go to the Friends of Wild River to help support park programs and improvements. Registration forms available at friendsofwildriver.org. (651-583-2925, mndnr.gov)
Studying fish
Fort Snelling State Park
1 p.m. Saturday
Come see how the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources uses nets called "seines" to study fish populations. Learn about the habitat requirements of different fish species and how water quality affects fish. Meet by the backwater of the Shelter A picnic area. (612-279-3550, mndnr.gov)
Fall ride and food
Luce Line State Trail
3-4:30 p.m. Saturday
Enjoy the beauty of the season and get some exercise as you ride along this corridor of color to see some spectacular views. Meet at the Ox Yoke Inn parking lot in Maple Plain, where you can eat dinner (on your own) after the ride. Call 651-231-6968 to make a reservation. (mndnr.gov)
Fly fishing clinic
Afton State Park
9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday
