Night-sky viewing events, programs for women fill out weekend schedule

William O'Brien State Park

8:30-10 p.m. Friday

Join the University of Minnesota astronomy department for a tour of the night sky. The program will move outside to view through telescopes. The program will stay indoors if it is cloudy. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

9-11:30 a.m., noon-2:30 p.m. or 3-5:30 p.m. Saturday

Learn shifting, braking and body position, along with the basics of safety and trail etiquette, before hitting the trails. Bikes and helmets provided. Reservations required (1-866-857-2757 or mndnr.gov/reservations)

Family archery

Cleary Lake Regional Park

10 a.m.-noon Saturday

Explore the basics of archery and elements of safety. Shoot at traditional and 3-D animal targets. Equipment provided. Cost is $10 and reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. (threeriversparks.org)

Ride for women

Gateway and Brown's Creek state trails

9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday

Join the naturalist on a moderately paced ride to Stillwater and back (about 26 miles). Stop at the Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter for lunch. Bring your own bike and helmet. Meet at the lot near Hadley Avenue and 55th Street. (651-231-6968, mndnr.gov)

Dark Sky Festival

McCarthy Beach State Park

10 a.m.-midnight Saturday

The festival at the park near Hibbing, Minn., includes a night sky photography exhibit and workshop, a spider hike, and, of course, star-gazing. Find the complete activity schedule posted online. (1-218-274-7200, mndnr.gov)

Kayaking instruction

Fish Lake Regional Park

1-4 p.m. Saturday

Learn safety skills and proper paddling techniques in this program for women. Beginners and anyone who has never had formal instruction will benefit. Equipment provided. Cost is $50. Call 763-559-6700 to reserve a spot. (threeriversparks.org)

Paddleboard lessons

Cleary Lake Regional Park

2-3:30 p.m. Saturday

Learn the basics. Equipment provided. Cost is $35. Call 763-559-6700 to reserve a spot. The program is for ages 14 and older. (threeriversparks.org).

Bryant Lake Regional Park,

7-9 p.m. Saturday:  Call 763-559-6700 to reserve a spot.

Ripe edibles

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2 p.m. Sunday

Many animals and humans alike are anticipating the arrival of late summer for its plentiful wild berries. A short walk along the trail will reveal some of the edible fruits. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)