Do This Now: Night hikes at Big Bog and Itasca as season switches to fall

Big Bog State Recreation Area

7:30-9 p.m. Saturday

Candles will light the mile-long boardwalk, which is fully accessible and family-friendly. There will be hot drinks and snacks afterward at the Ludlow Pond picnic shelter. Meet at the North Unit. Trying for the 125 Miles by Bike, Boot or Boat Challenge? This event can help add 2 miles. (1-218-647-8592, mndnr.gov)

Eastman Nature Center

1-4 p.m. Saturday

Create a leaf print T-shirt or decorative flag (bring a light-colored shirt), seed-art picture and hiking stick. Cost is $5. (763-694-7700)

Itasca State Park

Guides will lead you on a walk through a photo album of Itasca's past. Characters will share stories about recreation in Itasca State Park. Group hikes will last about 30 minutes, departing every 10 minutes from the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center. Hike length is about one-half mile. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Other activities will be ongoing, including music and a variety of children's activities. Bring your own picture of recreating in the park to pin onto the Itasca "Making Memories" board. (1-218-699-7251, mndnr.gov)

Maplewood State Park

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Celebrate the fall colors at the park. There will be various activities organized by the Friends of Maplewood State Park. All events held at the Josh Hanson Memorial Picnic Shelter. The Leaf Days celebration continues Oct. 1-2. (1-218-863-8383, mndnr.gov)

Fort Snelling State Park

William O'Brien State Park

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday

Stop by the picnic shelter in the picnic grounds and learn about this new techno-treasure hunt, learn how to use a global positioning system unit, and then head out to find some of the specially placed caches. GPS units will be provided. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)

Murphy-Hanrehan Reserve

10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesday