1 Bird-watching trek

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Oct. 18, 8-10:30 a.m.

Meet at Old Cedar Avenue (9500 Old Cedar Av. S., Bloomington) for a guided walk in search of migratory waterfowl, raptors, warblers and sparrows. Bring binoculars and a field guide. Dress for the weather. More information: 952-858-0715 or www.fws.gov/refuge/Minnesota_Valley.

2 Tying your first fly

Fort Snelling State Park, Oct. 18, 1-3 p.m.

Spin fibers into flies for fly fishing at this free workshop. Equipment and materials provided. Registration required; 612-725-2724. More information: www.mndnr.gov.

3 Fall colors river adventure

Lake Rebecca Park Reserve, Oct. 18, 1-4 p.m.,

Take a family-friendly canoeing excursion down the Crow River to see the fall colors. Previous canoeing experience recommended for adults. Equipment provided. Ages 8-plus. $20. Registration required; 763-559-6700. More information: www.threeriversparks.org.

4 Nordic walking

William O'Brien State Park, Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Join certified Nordic Walking instructor Kay Okey for a walk through the woods while a naturalist discusses the park's plants and animals. Demonstration poles provided. Wear comfortable shoes with good treads. Registration required; 651-433-0500. More information: www.mndnr.gov.

5 Art and sport of falconry

North Mississippi Regional Park, Oct. 23, 10 a.m.-noon

Meet at Kroening Interpretive Center to learn more about falconry, an ancient sport using birds of prey for hunting. Meet modern day falconers and see the birds, dogs and equipment they use. Ages 16-plus. $5. Registration required; 763-559-6700. More information: www.threeriversparks.org.