Tips Park in Three Rivers now sports a new nature trail and bird observatory. From Highway 281 north, take Highway 72 west for about a mile. The park sits on the left-hand side.

Tips Park’s four-foot-wide nature trail runs over a mile through the 56-acre wilderness with different venues at every turn.

A boardwalk with a patio is planned with a pond underneath. Currently open to the public is Hummingbird Lane, the beginning of the trail. Stands for feeders have been placed adjacent to the overview. Kathy Nilges, park host at Tips Park, keeps the feeders full to attract the birds. There is also a “bird blind” where photographers can hide and photograph the birds.

The Chamber of Commerce has planted salvia and trumpet vine to attract hummingbirds. Gradually perennials will replace annuals. Several acres of sunflowers will be planted as well.

So grab your binoculars, pack your sunscreen and take a hike down Hummingbird Lane. The trail is open daily until 10 p.m.