Night-sky viewing events, programs for women fill out weekend schedule

William O'Brien State Park

8:30-10 p.m. Friday

Join the University of Minnesota astronomy department for a tour of the night sky. The program will move outside to view through telescopes. The program will stay indoors if it is cloudy. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

9-11:30 a.m., noon-2:30 p.m. or 3-5:30 p.m. Saturday

Learn shifting, braking and body position, along with the basics of safety and trail etiquette, before hitting the trails. Bikes and helmets provided. Reservations required (1-866-857-2757 or mndnr.gov/reservations)

Family archery

10 a.m.-noon Saturday

Explore the basics of archery and elements of safety. Shoot at traditional and 3-D animal targets. Equipment provided. Cost is $10 and reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. (threeriversparks.org)

Ride for women

Gateway and Brown's Creek state trails

9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday

Dark Sky Festival

McCarthy Beach State Park

10 a.m.-midnight Saturday

The festival at the park near Hibbing, Minn., includes a night sky photography exhibit and workshop, a spider hike, and, of course, star-gazing. Find the complete activity schedule posted online. (1-218-274-7200, mndnr.gov)

Kayaking instruction

1-4 p.m. Saturday

Learn safety skills and proper paddling techniques in this program for women. Beginners and anyone who has never had formal instruction will benefit. Equipment provided. Cost is $50. Call 763-559-6700 to reserve a spot. (threeriversparks.org)

Paddleboard lessons

Cleary Lake Regional Park

2-3:30 p.m. Saturday

Bryant Lake Regional Park,

7-9 p.m. Saturday:  Call 763-559-6700 to reserve a spot.

Ripe edibles

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2 p.m. Sunday