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Hikes, birding, Adventure Quest make up weekend at parks

What to do at state, county and regional parks (national wildlife refuges, too)

April 27, 2017 at 3:27PM

About migrating birds

Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

1-1:45 p.m. Saturday

This talk and slide show about spring migration will include a lesson on the use of binoculars, and tips on how to attract migratory birds to backyards. Meet at the interpretive center. (1-320-532-3269, mndnr.gov)

Sounds of spring

Wild River State Park

1-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Have you noticed some unusual sounds outdoors recently? Frogs, birds and even some insects are making mating calls. Take a hike and fine-tune your hearing with the park naturalist, exploring spring sounds. (651-583-2125, ext. 227, mndnr.gov)

Butterfly garden

Whitewater State Park

1-3 p.m. Saturday

Discover the beauty and importance of native prairie as well as how to make a prairie wildflower garden. Free butterfly-weed seedlings will be available. (1-507-932-3007, mndnr.gov)

Bird banding

Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

9 a.m.-noon Saturday

Come and go anytime during this program to see bird banding in action. Get an up-close look as birds are weighed, measured and fitted with a uniquely numbered leg band after their capture. (1-507-333-4840, mndnr.gov)

Meet the naturalists

Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Roving naturalists area available to help identify signs of spring. Specifically, they will point out the federally endangered Minnesota dwarf trout lily, along with other wildflowers and some plants that do not bloom. (1-507-333-4840, mndnr.gov)

Birding trek

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge

8-10:30 a.m. Saturday

Join a naturalist at the Old Cedar Avenue trailhead of the Long Meadow Lake Unit. All levels welcome. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. (952-240-7647, bit.ly/ MINvalley)

Adventure time

Baker Near-Wilderness Settlement

2-6:30 p.m. Sunday

A program called Adventure Quest mixes canoeing, orienteering, archery, puzzles, fire-building and campfire cooking, pitting two-, three- or four-person teams. Short tutorials are available for some events. The program is designed for an approximately 1 1/2-hour challenge. All quest equipment supplied. Bring appropriate clothing/footwear, water and snacks. Ideal for middle school, high school ages and families. Register as a team in advance or drop in. Cost is $25 per team. (763-694-7856, threeriversparks.org)