Trout Day

Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday

In its 16th year, Trout Day will feature fly-fishing and spin-fishing seminars, a free hot dog roast, door prizes and more. National Trout Center representatives will assist with fly rod casting and fly-tying demonstrations. And, too, there will be plenty of fishing (with a limited supply of fishing gear provided). Registered participants do not need a fishing license or trout stamp to fish; register at the park between 8:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. (507-346-1888, mndnr.gov)

Finding morels

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

Morels (the state mushroom as noted on Page OW3) should be popping up along with spring wildflowers. Look for both on an easy walk. Registration required; e-mail sara.holger@state.mn.us or call 507-932-3007, ext. 226. (mndnr.gov)

Birding for beginners

Fort Snelling State Park, 10-11 a.m. Sunday

Join the naturalist for a birding hike and learn about the basics of bird identification. A limited quantity of binoculars and bird guides will be available. Registration required; call 612-725-2724. (mndnr.gov)

Birding by canoe

Elm Creek Park Reserve, 9:30 a.m.-noon Saturday

Head to Dayton and explore one of the largest undeveloped areas in Three Rivers Park District with naturalists from Eastman Nature Center. Search for waterfowl and other spring migrants by canoeing as far into Hayden Lake as the cattail islands allow. Includes a brief canoeing lesson. To access Hayden Lake, participants will help carry canoes several hundred yards and paddle upstream on Elm Creek. Equipment included. Cost is $15, and reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 and reference number 212263-00. This program is for ages 16 and older. (threeriversparks.org)

Wildflower walk

Interstate State Park, 1:30-3 p.m. Sunday

Head to Taylors Falls (but beware of the Hwy. 8 road construction). Treat your mother to an afternoon of unusual wildflowers and scenic overlooks. Wind up the stairs and switchbacks of sandstone bluffs and past the park's most diverse wildflowers on a one-mile hike. A state park naturalist will lead the way and point out beautiful blooms that might otherwise be overlooked. We will move at a leisurely pace, but expect numerous stairs and some uneven terrain. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a camera. Meet at the park office. (651-465-5711, mndnr.gov)