Dr. T.K. Lawless Park near Jones is hosting its sixth “2012 Discover Winter Nights” from 5 to 9 p.m. Jan. 21 and 28 and Feb. 4 and 11.
Weather permitting, this event will feature a lighted tubing hill (tubes provided or bring your own), and three miles of lighted cross-country ski trails.  A warming fire and refreshments will be available for those wishing for a more relaxed atmosphere with family and friends.
Also back by popular demand, horse drawn sleigh rides will be at the park on Jan. 21 and Feb. 11.  Fees for this event include a $2 per person entrance fee and an additional $2 per person to enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the peaceful, postcard-like setting that is Lawless Park in the winter.
For birding enthusiasts, the park will again have an “Owl Prowl” at Lawless Park at 5 p.m. Feb. 11.  Join Cass County Audubon Society Member Jon Wuepper as he shares insight about this magnificent bird and witness Wuepper using his unique communication skills to call an owl or two out of the woods for all to see.  Those who have witnessed him in action can attest that his skills are truly amazing especially when the owls are cooperating.
With hours of operation from sunrise to sunset there is plenty to see and do during daylight hours as well. Located just south of M-60 on Monkey Run Street, five miles west of Jones, this 820-acre park has long been the centerpiece of winter recreation within the Cass County Parks system.
Visitors of all abilities can enjoy more than seven miles of groomed cross-country skiing and hiking trails that travel through some of the most scenic countryside in southwest Michigan. Traveling along these beautiful trails one can often view Bald Eagle, beaver, otter, whitetail deer and squirrel among others.
Just a couple of attractions available for viewing is a bald eagle nest identified along Hogback Lake and a newly constructed beaver dam just off trail No. 5. The breathtaking landscapes that blanket this park during the winter also provide a perfect spot for bird watching and for sitting back and enjoying the best nature has to offer at one of many covered benches.
For those looking for a little more excitement, look no further than the groomed inner-tubing hill, where visitors can bring your own tube or use one of the park’s for this exciting winter activity.
Tubing parties are available.
For more information or snow conditions please call Cass County Parks and Recreation at (269) 445-4456 or email Scott Wyman at scottwy@cassco.org.