Come out of the house and into nature during the winter months to see a whole new side of the landscape. The snow makes everything look pristine and cross country skiing and snowshoeing are great ways to stay active during the winter months. There are multiple organized trips that occur regularly during the next couple months you might want to join.

Snowshoe Owl Prowl at Lincoln Brick Park (13991 Tallman Rd., Grand Ledge): 7 – 8:30 p.m. January 16, February 13, February 27, and March 13.
Join Naturalist Jackie Blanc on a night hike in search of screech owls. Look for animal tracks and make a few of your own. Program fee is $5 per person with equipment rental or $2 per person with your own equipment. Advance registration required; to register please send an e-mail to parksdept@eatoncounty.org with your name, phone number, number of adults and children in your party, the date of the hike you’d like to attend and whether or not you need to rent equipment. You may also register by calling the park office at 517-627-7351 during regular business hours.

Ski and Snowshoe Night Fest at Fitzgerald Park (133 Fitzgerald Park Dr., Grand Ledge): 6 – 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights ~ Jan. 4, 5, 18, 19 and Feb. 1 & 2.
Come cross-country ski or snowshoe under the stars on illuminated trails or enjoy the sledding hill (weather permitting) at Fitzgerald Park. Cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals are available on a first come, first serve basis at the Fitzgerald Park office. Cost for event is $2 per person with own equipment (payable at office) or $5 per person per hour to rent equipment.

Beginner Snowshoe Clinic at Fitzgerald Park (133 Fitzgerald Park Dr., Grand Ledge): 2 – 4 p.m. Jan. 20 & Feb. 3.
This two hour clinic is designed to teach novices the basics of snowshoeing. Cost is $15 for those who need to rent equipment or $10 for those with their own equipment. Class size is limited and advance registration is required. Call the park office at 517-627-7351 to sign up.