REGION- Free ORV Weekend is coming up Aug. 19-20! Residents and out-of-state visitors legally can ride Michigan’s 4,000 miles of off-road vehicle trails and routes, as well as the state’s six scramble areas, on two back-to-back days without an ORV license or trail permit. The Recreation Passport requirement and all other ORV rules and laws still apply.
The Recreation Passport requirement still applies in locations where it’s required, including when motor vehicles are used to trailer ORVs into state parks and to state-designated trailheads, and for ORVs operating at Silver Lake ORV Area.
Another perk: the regular entrance fee at Holly Oaks ORV Park in Oakland County will be waived for this special weekend.
If you’re planning an end-of-summer adventure, with family and friends, on the dunes at Silver Lake or on another part of Michigan’s 4,000 miles of off-road vehicle routes, remember your safety gear, ride at a safe speed and know the conditions of the trail you’re riding.
Lead rider safety tips
- Have a plan if your trail group gets separated.
- Only ride at a speed comfortable for the most novice rider in your group.
- Ride in groups of seven or less.
- Stop at all intersections and check on riders.
- Assign an advanced rider to ride in the back and act as a “sweeper.”
- Have and use mirrors to regularly check on riders.
- Never compliment or criticize a rider for their ability to keep up (or not keep up).
- Ensure riders make it home safely to family and friends.
