Visit the Ottawa County Parks Program and Events Calendar for details and registration. Call the Nature Education Center for more information: 616-786-4847.

Announcements

Although we are not quite ready to open the Pigeon Creek Park Lodge, we are starting to roll and compact the snow on the trails today (1/24). Since winter operations have begun walking, dogs, and bikes are now prohibited on the trails at Pigeon Creek. If we get more snow this week, we should be able to open the lodge and rent skis. If you want to come out and ski with your own skis today, please be aware that the conditions are only poor to marginal, and the sledding hill is worn and bare in a few spots from heavy weekend use. Cross your fingers and wish for more snow and no days over 32° this week! ❄️ Check the hotline or trails page for up-to-date lodge hours and trail conditions: (616) 738-9531 • miOttawa.org/trails

This Week's Programs & Events

Winter Tree Walk January 26, 10:00 AM- 11:30 AM at Hemlock Crossing  Winter is a wonderful time to appreciate the structure of trees! Walk the woods to appreciate the fine details of deciduous trees and learn a few tips to identifying them in the subtleness of winter. This program is recommended for Adults & children 10+. No registration required.

Intermediate Cross-Country Ski Class

January 26, 10:00 AM- 11:30 AM at Pigeon Creek Park 

For experienced adult skiers who would like to refine their technique and ski more efficiently.

Participants must provide equipment. Rental available but not guaranteed.

Class registration fee (does not include equipment rental): $8

2-hour equipment rental fee: $8/adult

Registration required.

Keep it Active Winter Walk January 27, 2:00 PM- 3:30 PM at Hemlock Crossing  These weekend winter walks will encourage you to stay active during the cold months of winter. Join a parks naturalist for a one-hour leisurely walk. If snow conditions allow, snowshoes will be available to rent for $6 a pair (or bring your own!) Registration required; ages 10+

Beginner Cross-Country Ski Class January 31, 6:00 PM- 7:30 PM at Pigeon Creek Park  February 5, 6:00 PM- 7:30 Pm at Pigeon Creek Park Learn about equipment and basic techniques. Ages 10+ (one adult required for every two children) Participants must provide equipment. Rental available but not guaranteed. 2-hour equipment rental fee: $8/adult or $5/youth (under age 12) Registration required.

Upcoming Programs & Workshops

Coffee with the Birds February 2 at Hemlock Crossing  Enjoy a hot cup of coffee & some baked goodies as you watch the birds at the feeders & discuss various birding topics with a naturalist. Bring your bird questions, curiosities and stories & don't forget your favorite mug! * There will be 2 sessions of the Feeder Watching to choose from: 9:30 and 11:10 am. * Birding Tidbits - 10:30am - Bite-sized presentations on anything bird-related. From tidbits on bird identification, and birding equipment to stories of birding adventures, these short programs are sure to be entertaining and informative. Schedule: 9:30 - 10:20 - Feeder Watching Session 1 10:30 - 11:00 - Birding Tidbits Presentation: "South Texas 'Trash' Birds" 11:10 - 12:00 - Feeder Watching Session 2 No registration required.

Fireside Storytime February 3, 3:00 PM- 4:00 PM at Hemlock Crossing   Snuggle up by the fire with your kids for a relaxing time of seasonally-themed nature stories and a mug of hot chocolate! Don't forget a comfy pillow and blanket. An optional walk will be offered afterward. Registration Required, $3/child. Recommended for ages 3-8, with a caregiver.

Photo by @cst photography

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