Do This Now: Minnesota weekend events from paddling to hiking

Family archery

Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park

2-4 p.m. Saturday

Learn the basics of shooting safely and accurately with skilled instructors at this New Prague park. Shoot at stationary targets and compete in fun shooting games. Equipment will be provided. There is a 20 percent discount for groups of four or more. This program is for ages 8 and older. The cost is $7, and reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation and refer to activity number 227701-00.

Paddling basics

Lowry Nature Center

1-3 p.m. Saturday

Learn canoeing techniques and water safety and have fun on Lake Auburn at Carver Park Reserve in Victoria. This program is for ages 5 and older. Children 17 and younger must be accompanied by a registered adult. Cost is $15, and reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation and refer to activity number 211311-00.

Spring birding outings

Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park

9-11 a.m. Saturday

It's migration time. Walk along the Mississippi River on the Hennepin County side, and dress for the weather. This program is free and is open to ages 6 and older.

Interstate State Park

8:30-9 a.m. Saturday

Take a 30-minute walk with a naturalist along the St. Croix River. More info: 651-465-5711 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

15th annual Trout Day

Mystery Cave State Park

8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Registration for this all-day fishing event begins at 8:30 a.m. at the park, in Forestville. There will be electro-fishing and fly-fishing demonstrations; seminars by DNR fisheries staff; an opportunity to fly-fish; a hot dog roast; door prizes and more. No trout stamp is needed for registered participants. More info: 1-507-261-9816 or www.mndnr.gov/ ptcalendar.

Wildflower walks

Whitewater State Park

1-2 p.m. Saturday

Take an easy hike with a park naturalist in search of spring wildflowers. Get a wildflower checklist at the visitor center. More info: 1-507-932-3007 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.