1 Caving field trip

Whitewater State Park, Nov. 9, 9-11 a.m.

Take a guided tour of a cave, where you'll walk, crawl and slither to explore its passageways. The caving tour is preceded by an educational slideshow covering cave geology and safety. Bring a flashlight, long pants and a willingness to get dirty. Reservations required; 507-932-3007 or www.mndnr.gov.

2 Skijoring clinic

French Regional Park, Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-noon

Ever wanted to dabble in skijoring, or dog-assisted cross-country skiing? Learn about skijoring equipment, basic dog commands, training techniques and trail etiquette. Experienced skijorers will answer questions and lead a dry-land training session. Equipment provided. $5. Reservation required; 763-559-6700 or www.threeriversparks.org.

3 St. Louis River Hike

Jay Cooke State Park, Nov. 9, 1-2:30 p.m.

Hike across the park's freshly repaired Swinging Bridge. Continue down a rugged path along the St. Louis River for a naturalist-led tour of the river's plants, animals and history. See other areas damaged by the June 2012 flood, which took out the Swinging Bridge. Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center. 218-384-4610 or www.mndnr.gov.

4 Youth survival skills

Camp Sacajawea in Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Nov. 10, noon-3 p.m.

Designed for ages 8 to 15, this wilderness survival course includes lessons on making shelters and fires without modern materials. Plus, kids will learn the basics of packing a survival kit. $10. More information: www.dakotacounty.us/parks

5 Nature walk

Fort Snelling State Park, Nov. 10, 1-2 p.m.

Join the park's naturalist for a cool, easygoing November walk while learning about the plants and animals that coexist with the busy highways, railroads, even the international airport framing this urban state park. 612-725-2724 or www.mndnr.gov.