Surround yourself with peak fall colors as you engage in the therapeutic practice of forest bathing with ANTF-certified guide, David Motzenbecker from Motz Studios. Forest bathing derives from the ancient Japanese art of Shinrin-Yoku which translates into taking in the forest air with all of senses. Join in a series of exercises that invite participants to slow down and tune into the natural world all around. Reservations required. This program is in partnership with Scott County. $32/person.

Join guest teaching artist Scott Stafford for Outdoor Qigong, a guided practice focused on finding flow with nature through breath and movement. This class will offer techniques for quieting the mind and easing the body, including seated and standing sequences from tai chi and qigong forms to promote overall well-being and balance. Together, we will move in and with nature, with a special focus on seasonal transition. No experience necessary. Anyone 18 and older is welcome. A yoga mat or towel for sitting on is recommended. Class will be held entirely outdoors. Meet at the Cleary Lake Visitor Center. This program is in partnership with the Scott County Wellness Initiative. $15/person.

Enjoy the optimal fall hiking season and explore the parks in Scott County with an Outdoor Recreation School Instructor. Hike a different trail each week. Make new connections and meet fellow hikers or bring a friend along! Expect variable trail conditions. Locations subject to change; an updated schedule will be provided to registered participants. This program is in partnership with Scott County. $30/person.

Follow clues and discover farm animals waiting to be fed throughout the park at this family-friendly fall program. Weather permitting, we will also find a series of "jump-ready" leaf piles around the park. Then choose your favorite leaf and transform it into art by way of leaf rubbing. For young readers eager to just jump into more learning, the Readmobile—a library on wheels—will make an appearance at the event, equipped with books, activities and snacks to refuel little explorers. This hands-on experience is free to attend and is particularly suited for children ages 3-8, though all family members are welcome. While dropping in to the event is possible, organizers recommend registration to receive updates, including any weather related changes or cancellations. This program is in partnership with Scott County, Libraries and CAP Agency. Free.

Bring the whole family and give archery a try! Join Outdoor Recreation School instructors to learn the basics of shooting, safety and aiming in this fun, beginner-friendly session. Perfect for families and friends looking to try a new outdoor activity side-by-side. Practice fundamental skills, participate in fun challenges and enjoy the thrill of hitting the target. Equipment provided. This program is in partnership with Scott County. $12/person.

Take an easy guided walk through the woods and enjoy the changing leaves, crisp air and sounds of nature. This relaxed walk is a chance to unplug, enjoy the season and connect with others outdoors. This program is in partnership with Scott County and part of the Wellness initiative. Free.

Wrap up 2026 with one last s’more! Join Outdoor Recreation School instructors for a scenic snowshoe hike followed by a yummy treat. Learn how to put on and walk in snowshoes, explore the snowy trails on a guided walk, then gather around the fire to roast marshmallows and make a s'more. We will hike if no snow. Participants ages 11 and under must be accompanied by a registered adult. This program is in partnership with Scott County. $12/person.

Hike an illuminated autumn trail at your own pace. Relax around a campfire while listening to live acoustic music. Hennepin County Libraries will provide a new Story Stroll to read on your hike each of the evenings. Bring your own snacks, beverages and s'mores. Stop in the building to view exhibits and purchase Richardson Nature Center's very own wildflower honey. The illuminated trail is approximately one-half mile along rolling woodchip and turf trails. No reservation needed; drop in anytime. All ages welcome. Free.

Join us for a magical evening of movement, mystery and autumn enchantment. Slip into your witchiest or warlockiest garb and gather with fellow spirited souls for a yoga session around the glow of the enormous fireplace at the lakeside pavilion. Afterward, gather around the fire with warm cider, good company and a few spooky stories. Costumes are encouraged but not required. Please bring a yoga mat or towel, layers to stay warm (the pavilion is unheated) and your most bewitching spirit. This program is offered in partnership with Scott County Libraries. $15/person.

Start your Monday mornings with fresh air, movement and good company! Developed in partnership with Club Prior, Morning Stretch and Stroll is a casual, quick walking club for adults ages 55+ looking to boost their health by walking outdoors on a peaceful paved path at a distance of a little over a mile with a stretching break incorporated at the midpoint. These 45-minute guided walking sessions will help you maintain your mobility and cardiovascular health. Nordic walking poles available upon request. This program is in partnership with the Scott County Wellness Initiative. Free.

Join guest teaching artist Scott Stafford for Outdoor Qigong, a guided practice focused on finding flow with nature through breath and movement. This class will offer techniques for quieting the mind and easing the body, including seated and standing sequences from tai chi and qigong forms to promote overall well-being and balance. Together, we will move in and with nature, with a special focus on seasonal transition. No experience necessary. A yoga mat or towel for sitting on is recommended. Class will be held entirely outdoors. Meet at the Cleary Lake Visitor Center. This program is in partnership with the Scott County Wellness Initiative. $15/person.

Get ready for a fall adventure with the Parktober hiking program! Throughout October, explore our local regional parks, searching for hidden signs along the trails and collect secret words for a chance to win fun prizes. It’s free, family-friendly and a great way to enjoy the changing seasons while staying active. Pick up your passport at the Cleary Lake visitor center starting October 1. This program is in partnership with the Scott County Wellness Initiative. All ages welcome. Free.

Celebrate Parktober, a month-long park trails mileage challenge, with an evening adventure at Murphy Hanrehan Park Reserve. On this 2.5-mile guided hike along turf trails, we will explore hilly, scenic views and a sweeping prairie vista, taking in the crisp autumn air and observing the seasonal changes. Meet at the horse trail entrance located off Sunset Lake Road. All ages welcome. This program is in partnership with Scott County. Free.

Join us for a friendly puzzling competition as your group of 2-4 people competes to be the first to complete the 300-piece puzzle. The winning team gets free pizza! All ages welcome. This program is in partnership with Scott County. Combine with Parktober Guided Hike for a full night of fun. $10/group. Max 4 per group.

Join Outdoor Recreation School instructors to celebrate the season with some gourd old-fashioned fun! Learn the basics of archery and take aim at pumpkins. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned archer, come enjoy a lighthearted experience with a seasonal twist. All equipment provided—just bring your autumn spirit! This program is in partnership with Scott County. $12/person.

Start your October morning beside the lake with a refreshing blend of pilates-inspired strength and gentle yoga movement. As the sun rises over the water and the park begins to wake, participants will build strength, stability and balance through controlled, low-impact exercises, then slow down with stretching, breathwork and mindful movement. Surrounded by crisp fall air, colorful scenery and peaceful lake views, this equipment-free class is designed to leave you feeling energized, grounded and connected to the season. Movements can be adapted for a range of fitness levels, making this a welcoming experience for beginners and experienced participants alike. Please dress for the weather and bring a yoga mat or towel, water and layers. This program is in partnership with Scott County and part of the Wellness initiative. Free.

Join the Outdoor Recreation School on a geocaching adventure full of Halloween surprises and treats. All ages are welcome. This program is in partnership with Scott County. $8/person.

Celebrate the longest night of the year with a peaceful, self-guided walk along a glowing luminary trail. Follow the lights through the winter woods, make your own paper luminary, then warm up by a campfire with good company, cozy vibes and a sweet treat. Snowshoes will be available if there is enough snow. Registration encouraged, though not required. This program is in partnership with Scott County. All ages are welcome. Free.