Fall for families
Interstate State Park
Noon-4 p.m. Friday
Stop by the visitor center for ongoing scavenger hunts, crafts and self-guided activities. (651-465-5711; mndnr.gov.
Wild River mysteries
Wild River State Park
1-2:30 p.m. Friday
A naturalist will open a big bag of bones, and a game of crime scene investigation will commence. Determine where the bones originated and how they got there. You will also help solve the mystery of what owls have been eating as you scientifically analyze their pellets. (651-583-2125, ext. 227, mndnr.gov)
Bird-watching
Afton State Park
9-10:30 a.m. Saturday
Whether you are just starting or have acquired a long list of species on bird-watching expeditions, share in this fun, recreational opportunity. (651-436-5391, mndnr.gov)
Fall art
Frontenac State Park
1-3 p.m. Saturday
Head to Frontenac, Minn., and meet local artist Katie Casci of Red Wing, who will showcase her nature-inspired works. There will be a variety of make-and-take craft projects. Also, learn how to identify trees by twigs, bark and buds, and get fall photography tips. (651-345-3401, mndnr.gov)
Geocaching for women
Fort Snelling State Park
10 a.m.-noon Saturday
Discover the fun of geocaching and how you can use a global positioning system (GPS) unit to find hidden treasures at Minnesota state parks and trails. Bring your own GPS unit or use a park-issued unit. Registration required; call 612-725-2724 to register. (mndnr.gov)
Glacial potholes
Interstate State Park
Noon-1 p.m. Sunday
Join the naturalist and explore the glacial pothole area for unique geologic formations. Also, get great, fall scenic overlooks. Meet at the visitor center. (651-465-5711, mndnr.gov)
Jay Cooke birthday
Jay Cooke State Park
1-2 p.m. Sunday
The park's 100th birthday celebration continues with another event. Discover what has happened in the park over the past century during this presentation of historic photos and more. Refreshments will be served. Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center. (1-218-384-4610, ext. 227; mndnr.gov)
Easy hike
Eastman Nature Center
1-3 p.m. Sunday
Head to Dayton and take a guided, leisurely two-mile hike. Children 17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. (763-694-7700; threeriversparks.org)