Winter Recreational Activities
Ottawa County Parks offer miles of un-groomed cross-country ski trails and places to explore on snowshoes, but two parks are considered winter destinations:
- Pigeon Creek Park offers groomed cross-country ski trails, ski and snowshoe rentals, ski lessons, sledding and more.
- Hemlock Crossing Park is another popular destination during winter offering snowshoe rentals at the Nature Center.
Pigeon Creek Park Winter Operations
Ski and snowshoe rental will begin as soon as we have enough snow. Here is some quick information about Pigeon Creek, scroll down for more detail.
- Before you visit, check our trail conditions page for information about trails, equipment rental, and lodge hours.
- Park hours: 7 am-10 pm daily (lodge and rental hours are limited, see below)
- Dogs, hiking, horseback riding, and biking are prohibited once operations begin
Pigeon Creek Lodge
The Lodge will be open for concessions this year. We are excited to welcome you back!
Equipment Rental
- Ski and snowshoe rental will be available in the lodge on a first come first serve basis; equipment cannot be reserved in advance.
- Capacity may be limited inside the rental area; be prepared to wait outdoors
- A picture ID or credit card is required as security for all rentals
Rental Hours
- Monday-Thursday, 2pm - 8pm, no rentals after 6:30pm
- Friday, 1pm - 10pm, no rentals after 8:30pm
- Saturday, 9am - 10pm, no rentals after 8:30pm
- Sunday, 9am - 8pm, no rentals after 6:30pm
*Please note that rental is only offered during good ski conditions. Check our trail conditions page before you visit.
Rental Pricing
- There are no entry or trail fees
- Cross-country ski or snowshoe rental (three hours): $8; $2 per additional hour
- Snowshoe rental for those 6 and under is free with a paid adult rental
Ski Lessons
Beginner, intermediate, and skate ski lessons will be offered. Check our program calendar to register.
Hemlock Crossing Nature Center
- Tuesday through Saturday: 9am - 5pm (gear due back by 4pm)
- Sunday: 12-5 pm (gear due back by 4 pm)
- Confirm whether snowshoe rental is available online at miottawa.org/trails
- Snowshoes are available for ages 4 and older
Rental Pricing
- There are no entry or trail fees
- Snowshoe rental (three hours): $8; $2 per additional hour
- Snowshoe rental for those 6 and under is free with a paid adult rental
Winter Programs
Nature Center staff offers nature and recreation programming year-round, including snowshoe hikes. Check our program calendar to register.