“Dave
PUBLISHER
Peter Farago
EDITOR
Ann Drzewiecki
ADVERTISING MANAGER
Scott Drzewiecki
CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR
Michelle Sheridan
SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Chelsie Dzbanski Fontenelle
WEB MANAGER
Kelly Kosek
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ric Federau, Stacy Drzewiecki, Kim Kisner, Mike Olmstead, Dominic Santina, Jay Haven, Joyce Wiswell
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Faith Taylor
SALES
Scott Drzewiecki, Chris Sutton DESIGNERS
Kelly Kosek, Kaitlyn Schoen
MICHIGAN
ELK HERD THRIVES FOR 100+
In Gaylord, Michigan, elk viewing isn’t just a pastime- it’s a bucketlist-worthy adventure. Home to one of the largest free-ranging elk herds east of the Mississippi, the heart of Northern Lower Michigan offers the chance to witness these magnificent animals both in captivity and in their natural habitat.
Elk viewing is a popular yearround activity in Gaylord and the surrounding area. Dawn and dusk are prime viewing times, but during the summer these giants of the forest may be harder to spot as they seek out shade in densely wooded areas. Fall color season and the best time to view
BY CHRISTY WALCOTT CONTRIBUTING WRITER
elk conveniently coincide, with September and October leading for sightings in the wild. Fall also signals the mating season, which means males (bulls) are trying to establish dominance for mating rights with the females (cows). They are highly active during this time, making loud vocalizations called bugling, breaking brush with their antlers and sparring with their rivals to impress cows and intimidate their competition.
Gaylord’s recently enhanced Elk View Park and the untamed Pigeon River Country State Forest offer two unique and distinct viewing opportunities.
For an almost guaranteed sighting during any season, the City of
Gaylord maintains an elk herd and provides viewing areas for the public to watch these impressive animals. Under the City’s care, roughly 40 elk call the park home.
In July 2025, the main viewing area was moved to a new location just south of the Gaylord Elk’s Lodge on the corner of Elkview Dr. and Commerce Blvd. The new park’s amenities include ample parking, a pavilion, restrooms, playground equipment and a universally accessible viewing platform. This platform sits above the feeding area for the herd, providing an excellent vantage point to check them out. Improvements continue, and eager elk viewers can look forward to the installation of interpretive signage
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in the near future.
The herd is contained on 108 acres. City staff feed the animals corn, hay and sugar beets, plus vitamins. Since starting with 3 elk obtained when a local nature center closed, the herd has been allowed to flourish naturally over the years. Currently, several of the bulls weigh well over 800 pounds and stand roughly 6’ tall. The bulls will don their massive horns during the fall and winter, dropping them in the spring.
In 2025, the Gaylord Area Convention & Tourism Bureau partnered with the Otsego County Commission on Aging (OCCOA) and the City of Gaylord to bring elk viewing right to the
comfort of your own home.
Upon the completion of the new viewing platform, a webcam was installed that looks over the primary feeding area.
Free of charge and available 24/7, the webcam can be accessed at www. gaylordmichigan.net/getoutdoors/elk-viewing-in-thegaylord-area
The majority of the Gaylord area’s free-roaming elk herd calls the Pigeon River Country State Forest home. Stretching over 120,000 acres through three counties, this habitat consists of both managed open continued on page 10
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areas and natural forests. Through cutting timber, planting crops and controlled burns, the Pigeon River Forest creates unspoiled surroundings for these creatures. Several elk viewing areas have been established within this natural habitat. These are not the only sites where you can see elk, but they are located in known elk-gathering spots. Most viewing locations are accessible by road, but some may require some walking. The official viewing sites are marked by the DNR, although elk range far and wide in the area and may not always be present. The best viewing is done from your car since elk are accustomed to seeing vehicles in the area. Use binoculars or spotting scopes for best results and do not approach elk. Despite their generous size, they are timid animals and will not tolerate much disturbance.
1. The small, cleared parking area and field on Fontinalis Road, about three miles north of Sturgeon Valley Road near the Cheboygan County line.
2. At the DNR-signed elk viewing area on East Sturgeon Valley Road, about eight miles east of Vanderbilt.
3. Less than one mile north of the Osmun Road and Clark Bridge Road intersection in the Pigeon River Country State Forest. Those interested in observing elk can receive maps and more information through the Gaylord Visitor’s Center at 319 West Main St. or online at www. gaylordmichigan.net.
While many visitors to the Gaylord area enjoy catching a glimpse of the prestigious elk herd, few know
the local history of these magnificent animals.
Once native to northern Michigan, elk went extinct in this region in the late 1800s. The current free-roaming herd can be traced all the way back to 1918, when seven Rocky Mountain elk were relocated to the Gaylord area from the western United States. After growing steadily to nearly 1,500 elk in the early 1960s, their numbers plummeted to only 200 in the mid-1970s due to poaching and reduced habitat quality.
Over the years, extensive public and private wildlife management has greatly contributed to the success of the current elk population. An aerial survey in 2016 found an estimated population of 1,300 animals, which makes this one of the largest free-roaming elk herds east of the Mississippi.
Elk are so revered in the Gaylord area that they were adopted as Otsego County’s official wildlife mascot in 2025. A resolution was voted on by the governing Boards of the Gaylord Area Convention & Tourism Bureau, City of Gaylord, Otsego County and Downtown Development Authority. Upon passing, an elk seal was created and is being used to help promote one of the area’s most unique assets.
For additional information on elk viewing, please visit www.gaylordmichigan.net. •
BY ANGELA TODD CONTRIBUTING WRITER
There’s something unmistakable about the moment you crest a dune at Silver Lake—the engine hum beneath you, the endless horizon of sand meeting Lake Michigan, and that split second where it feels like freedom is the only thing that matters.
For Jeep enthusiasts, it’s not just a place—it’s a feeling. And this May, that feeling carries even more weight as the Silver Lake Sand Dunes Jeep Invasion celebrates its 10th anniversary.
Set for May 28–31, 2026—and notably not Memorial Day weekend—this milestone event brings together hundreds of Jeeps and thousands of enthusiasts for four days of off-road adventure, community, and a shared love for the Jeep lifestyle that comes with it. What started as a small, grassroots
gathering around a campfire, has grown into one of the Midwest’s premier Jeep events; all while holding tight to the spirit that made it special from the very beginning.
“At the end of the day, it’s never just been about the Jeeps,” said Board President Dan Kolosci.
“It’s about the people, the community, and creating something that keeps folks coming back year after year.”
That sense of community is what sets Jeep Invasion apart. Yes, there’s adrenaline— plenty of it. From guided dune rides to technical challenges that push both driver and machine, Silver Lake offers terrain that’s as rewarding as it is iconic. But ask anyone who’s attended, and they’ll tell you the real magic happens off the throttle.
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It’s in the sunset cruises where lines of Jeeps silhouette against the sky. It’s in the parking lot conversations that turn into friendships. It’s in the quick wave from a stranger who instantly feels like part of your crew.
Vice President Derrick Meyer sees it happen every year. “You’ll have someone show up not knowing anyone,” he said, “and by the end of the weekend, they’ve got a whole group they’re riding with. That’s what makes this event
different—it’s welcoming, it’s real, and people feel that right away.”
The 10th anniversary lineup leans fully into everything attendees have come to love. The ShowN-Shine brings out some of the most impressive builds in the region, while the vendor midway creates a hub of activity with parts, gear, and brands that fuel the off-road lifestyle. Add in food trucks, giveaways, and fan-favorite traditions like the Jeep Parade, and there’s a steady energy that carries
from morning well into the evening.
And then there are the signature events—the Welcome Party, the Show and Shine, Parade to the Dunes, and those moments in between where stories are shared and memories are made. It’s a rhythm that feels familiar to returning attendees and instantly welcoming to first-timers.
For board member Angela Todd, the 10-year milestone is both exciting and personal. “There’s a
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continued from page 14 sense of pride in watching this grow,” she said. “But what hasn’t changed is the feeling you get out on the dunes—it’s freedom, plain and simple. You can’t replicate that anywhere else.”
That authenticity traces back to the event’s earliest days. Founding board member Rusty Rogers remembers when Jeep Invasion was little more than an idea fueled by passion and a shared love for the dunes, and of course, Jeeps.
“We didn’t know it would become this,” Rogers said. “We just knew we wanted to bring Jeep people together at one of the most incredible places in Michigan. Everything grew from that.”
What’s grown alongside the event is its impact. Jeep Invasion isn’t just about gathering—it’s about giving back. Organized and run by a dedicated team of volunteers, the event has consistently supported local causes and strengthened ties within the Silver Lake community. It’s a reminder that the Jeep lifestyle isn’t just about where you go—it’s about what you contribute along the way.
For more information about the 10th anniversary event please visit www.slsdjeepinvasion.com For vendor/sponsor information, please contact Angela Todd at (269) 366-0707.
Of course, none of it would matter without the backdrop that makes it all possible. Silver Lake Sand Dunes is where you can drive your Jeep right up to the shore of Lake Michigan. The combination of rolling dunes, open sky, and lakefront views creates an environment that’s equal parts playground and postcard.
For seasoned drivers, it’s a proving ground. For newcomers, it’s an introduction unlike any other. And for everyone in between, it’s a place that keeps calling you back.
Ten years in, Jeep Invasion has evolved—but it hasn’t lost its identity. It’s still built on passion. Still powered by community and volunteers. Still defined by the kind of moments you can’t quite put into words—but you feel them the second your tires hit the sand.
And if there’s one thing the last decade has proven, it’s this: once you’ve experienced Jeep Invasion at Silver Lake, it doesn’t become a one-time trip. It becomes a tradition. •
Conquer Michigan’s breathtaking 2,000-acre sand dune playground in your Jeep! Join thousands of enthusiasts for the Midwest’s premier Jeep celebration.
Jeep Parade on Saturday
Trail Rides
Craft Show
Show & Shine Jeep Show
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We are here for the marathon, not just the sprint. Motorized recreation continues to grow, and with a great winter season behind us, many of us are now transitioning from the seat of our snowmobiles to our ORVs.
Karen Middendorp Executive Director MISORVA
As we make that seasonal shift, I want to encourage each of you to take the time to get to know the people you vote for. MISORVA is your voice to legislators, but your elected officials are the only true oversight of the DNR. That matters. Who helps educate legislators on motorized recreation, trail programs, and the real-world impact of their decisions? MISORVA does. From an office in Lansing, the view of
the trails is nonexistent. Some legislators are enthusiasts themselves, and they understand the bigger picture. But that does not remove the responsibility from the rest of us. Users must remain diligent in understanding the laws, protecting our rights, and respecting the rights of others.
This winter, with the exceptional snowfall, clubs were working nonstop to keep up with trail conditions. It was disappointing to see riders criticizing clubs and trail maintenance efforts without understanding the challenges behind the scenes. Social media can be vicious. It gives people a platform to say things they likely would never say faceto-face, or even under their breath. We need to do better.
We need to be grateful for the hardworking volunteers who make this program possible. There is not one group involved in this program that does not
want to produce the best trail possible. But many factors can affect the outcome. Equipment failures happen. Operators become unavailable for any number of reasons. Weather changes quickly. Breakdowns, scheduling issues, and volunteer shortages are all realities of a program built largely on volunteer time and dedication.
The knowledge and experience that built this program are aging out. We need new volunteers to step up, learn the ropes, and be ready to take the reins. Transitions are never easy. They are difficult for those who are not yet ready to step away, and just as difficult for newer volunteers trying to find the time and confidence to get involved.
This season, grant sponsors lost a valued mentor in a tragic accident — someone who had been a resource
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In the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, winter is not just a season—it’s a way of life. Locals are no strangers to late-season snowfalls, especially those that arrive around St. Patrick’s Day. A fresh blanket of snow in mid-March is practically tradition.
But this year, tradition gave way to something far more formidable—a blizzard of historic proportions that rewrote the record books and tested even the most seasoned Yoopers.
What began as a typical Sunday snowfall quickly escalated into a relentless, multi-day weather event. By the time the storm finally loosened its grip, some areas of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan had been buried under an astonishing 54 inches of snow. Drifts climbed higher than doorways, and familiar landscapes disappeared beneath towering white mounds. Visibility dropped to near zero at the height of the storm, as fierce winds whipped snow into blinding curtains.
Communities across the
region ground to a halt. Schools closed their doors. Businesses locked up, some for days at a time. What might typically be a one-day snow closure stretched into a full week for many. The storm, which began on Sunday, left some districts and operations shuttered well into Thursday as crews worked tirelessly to clear roads, restore access, and ensure safety.
Travel became not just difficult, but impossible. The iconic Mackinac Bridge—a vital artery connecting the Upper and Lower Peninsulas—was shut down due to dangerous whiteout conditions. It’s a rare occurrence, and one that underscores the severity of the storm. Numerous highways and local roads followed suit, closed for extended periods as plows struggled to keep pace with the unyielding snowfall and wind.
Snowmobile trails vanished under deep, wind-packed snow and were littered with downed trees and debris. In some areas, trail markers themselves were barely visible. Groomers mobilized as soon as conditions allowed, but even they faced daunting challenges. Powerful grooming machines, designed to handle harsh winter terrain,
struggled to push through the sheer volume and density of the snow. Progress was slow, methodical, and at times uncertain.
Operators reported drifts that swallowed entire sections of trail and equipment that labored just to stay on top of the snowpack. In wooded areas, fallen trees created bottlenecks that required chainsaws and coordinated efforts just to reopen a passable corridor. It wasn’t just grooming—it was recovery.
Yet, just like the communities they serve, these crews pressed on. Long hours, early mornings, and late nights became the norm as they worked to restore the trails to safe, rideable conditions. Their efforts are a testament to the deep-rooted passion for winter recreation in the region and the understanding that these trails are more than that … they are lifelines for tourism, local businesses, and a cherished way of life.
Yet, amid the disruption, a familiar resilience emerged. Neighbors checked on one another. Snowblowers roared to life in unison. Plow drivers worked around the clock, carving narrow paths through what seemed like endless accumulation. In the Upper Peninsula, this is more than response—it’s culture.
For many, the storm will be remembered not just for its intensity, but for its timing. A St. Patrick’s Day storm is expected. A storm of this magnitude is not. It served as a stark reminder that even in a region defined by winter, nature can still surprise.
If there’s one lesson etched into the snowbanks left behind, it’s this: living in Michigan requires a certain mindset. Preparation isn’t optional— it’s essential. From emergency supplies to flexible schedules, residents know that adaptability is part of the deal.
Because in the end, no matter how advanced forecasts become or how prepared we think we are, Mother Nature always has the final say. And this time, she made sure no one would forget it. ■
Come meet the Board of Directors and your support team for motorized recreation.
We have far more in common than the things that sometimes seem to divide us.
Not a member yet? This is your chance to see for yourself that we support all motorized recreation and believe the goal is to work better together. We want to hear your thoughts, share ideas, and have some fun along the way.
A room block is available at Mountain Valley Lodge & Campground.
A Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Saturday at the Benzie
Manistee Clubhouse. We will drop the gavel and begin at 9:00 a.m., should wrap up around lunchtime, and there is a great possibility for another ride Saturday afternoon.
Take some time to get to know the Board for yourself.
As always, this ride is a strictly no alcohol or drugs event
Ride Right. Ride Safe. Make it home for drinks afterward.
to many clubs, offering guidance on everything from mechanical issues to program questions to boots-on-theground trail work. Losses like that can happen to any club, at any time. A lengthy illness early in the season can take an operator out of the driver’s seat. When that happens, the remaining volunteers must pick up extra shifts and carry a heavier load to keep the schedule moving. That is why we must choose gratitude over criticism.
Behind every groomed trail, every repaired section, every cleared hazard, and every mile maintained, there are people giving their time, their energy, and often their own resources to keep this program going. They do it because they care deeply
about the sport, the trails, and the future of recreation in Michigan.
We also need to remember that the future of this program depends on more than permits and equipment. It depends on people. It depends on respect. It depends on users who are willing to become involved, support the organizations that advocate for them, and understand that this work is a long-term commitment.
Motorized recreation is growing. The demands on the system are growing with it. That means all of us — riders, volunteers, clubs, and advocates — must keep working together to protect and strengthen what we have built.
Be involved. Be informed. Be thankful. And when the opportunity comes, be willing to help carry the program forward. ■
MISORVA
At 98 years young, David Low is proving that a love for snowmobiling doesn’t fade with age. A lifetime member of MSA/ MISORVA and a proud inductee into the Snowmobile Hall of Fame, David is still doing what he loves most—riding.
Recently, David competed in the annual obstacle course event in Wayland. While he may have finished last, that’s not what matters to him. Just being able to get on a snowmobile and make it go is an accomplishment he’s incredibly proud of.
“I don’t really care where I place,” David says. “Just being able to ride is an accomplishment.”
And he’s not slowing down anytime soon. David has his sights set on a remarkable goal: riding his snowmobile on his 100th birthday. Since his birthday falls on October 29, he jokes that he may have to head to North Dakota to make it happen.
David has a simple message for fellow riders: “Keep riding your snowmobile and have as much fun as I’ve had over the years.”
His story is a powerful reminder of why we ride—not for trophies or times, but for the joy, the freedom, and the lifelong memories that come with it. ■
BY DOMINIC SANTINA CONTRIBUTING WRITER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY LIZZIE PHOTOGRAPHY
Northern Power Race Park is preparing to kick off its second full season of summer events. In 2025, NPRP introduced pit bike racing, side-by-side competitions, and mud bogs, running a limited schedule to test the waters. After working through the early stages of launching these events last year, the park is now ready to fully commit. The 2026 schedule will once again include all three, with upgrades planned for several of them.
The Mud Bogs will return with two events in the 2026 calendar. The first event will be held on Sunday, June 28. While the second event will be held on Saturday, October 10. The events promise to bring lots of mud and tons of fun.
“ NPRP Mud Bogs will bring the ultimate off-road chaos to Mancelona- deep ruts, roaring engines and plenty of wheel-spinning madness. It’s loud, it’s dirty
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and it’s a blast for drivers and fans alike. Bring your rig and see if you’ve got what it takes to power through the pit,” – NPRP website
The event will feature eight classes, including: Mega Truck, Open-Cut, Open-Paddle, Super Modified, Powder Puff, Modified Stock 2, Modified Stock 1, and Street Stock/ Farm.
The entry fees for all the classes will range from $25 to $45 and all rules can be found on the Northern Power Race Park website.
The pit bike events continued to grow throughout the summer. A fun track to ride, providing dirt bike riders with a new experience to enjoy. The races are advertised as:
“Pit Bike racing at NPRP is all about tight battles, big energy and good times. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, pit bikes bring the perfect mix of fun and competition for all ages. Come race, rip and hang with a crew that lives for the thrill! ,” – NPRP website
The Park has added three standalone events at the Northern Power Race Park. They will host a race once a month, with the first one being held on May 23, followed by Friday, June 26 and Saturday, July 25. The Park has also partnered with the Northwestern Michigan Fair to promote a Pit Bike race at the fairgrounds on Tuesday, August 11.
There are 10 classes available for those interested in competing in the Pit Bike races. They offer the following classes: Pit Bike
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Open, Pit Bike Mod, Pit Bike Limited, Pit Bike Stock, Youth Pit Bike, Youth Pit Bike – Quad, Trail Bike and Women’s Pit Bike.
You can find detailed rules for each division on the Northern Power Race Park website, along with the link to register for each event.
The biggest change to the NPRP summer events is the news that it will host a points-paying series. The Side-by-Side racing series is the first event chosen. The season will be contested at the track built at NPRP last year. The first race will be hosted on Saturday, May 16. The second round is scheduled for Saturday, June 13 and the third round on Saturday, July 11. The championship round will be held on Saturday, August 29.
The series will feature three different classes: Pro Turbo, Pro NA, Sportsman and Women. The ProTurbo, Pro NA, and Women’s classes will feature a payout, a trophy and a point class. The Sportsman class will feature a trophy and points.
With the series becoming a point series, the format of the races also changes. Each race will consist of two qualifying rounds. Each race will feature six racers. If more than six are entered, there will be more than one heat. The winner of each heat will have the option to either advance directly to the final or run the second qualifying race. The top 10 finishers from the qualifying rounds will advance to the final in each class. The qualifying races will be four laps, while the final will be six laps.
As with the other series, all rules are available on the Northern Power Race Park website, along with a link to register for any SXS race.
Northern Power Race Park is gearing up for another big season after coming off a very successful snow season. The updates and improved series seem set to position them for the start of big summer seasons as well.
You can stay up to date with everything on their website, northernpowerracepark.com, or one of their social media pages on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. •
For off-road enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill of Michigan’s ORV trail system without hauling their own machines, RZR RIPN’ Rentals offers the perfect solution. Located in the heart of northern Michigan’s riding country, this growing rental business has become a popular destination for visitors who want to explore the trails in comfort and style aboard high-performance side-by-side machines.
Based in the small but ORV-friendly community of St. Helen, the company sits in one of the best riding regions in the state. The area is surrounded by miles of state forest trails, sandy backcountry routes, and open riding areas that draw off-road enthusiasts from across Michigan and the Midwest. With so many trails
available right outside the door, the business offers riders an easy way to jump into the adventure.
Like many successful outdoor businesses, RZR RIPN’ Rentals was born from a passion for the sport itself. The founders recognized that thousands of visitors come to northern Michigan each year to enjoy the outdoors, but not everyone owns an off-road vehicle or has the ability to bring one with them on vacation. Rather than letting that stop people from enjoying the trails, the idea was simple: provide high-quality machines that allow anyone to experience the excitement of ORV riding. By offering dependable
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continued from page 32 vehicles, clear instructions, and an easy rental process, the business makes it possible for beginners and experienced riders alike to explore the area’s incredible trail system.
What started as a small operation has grown steadily as word has spread among riders looking for a convenient and exciting way to explore Michigan’s backcountry. Today, RZR RIPN’ Rentals continues to build its reputation by focusing on customer service, safe equipment, and a memorable riding experience.
One of the biggest advantages of RZR RIPN’ Rentals is its location. St. Helen has long been considered one of Michigan’s premier ORV destinations. Riders visiting the area quickly discover why it’s so popular.
Just minutes away is the well-known St. Helen Motorsport Area, which features over 50 miles of designated ORV trails along with large open riding areas filled with sandy hills, challenging turns, and exciting hill climbs. The terrain offers something for every skill level, from beginners looking for scenic trail rides to experienced riders eager to test their machines in deep sand and technical sections.
The surrounding state forest land also connects riders to a much larger network of ORV trails that stretch for hundreds of miles across northern Michigan. These trails wind through pine forests, sandy two-tracks, and rolling terrain that
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showcases the natural beauty of the region.
Another unique feature of the area is how ORV-friendly the community is. Riders can legally travel from the trails into town for gas, food, or supplies, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring without needing to load up a trailer.
The core of the RZR RIPN’ Rentals experience is the fleet of powerful side-by-side off-road vehicles available for customers. The company specializes in machines from Polaris, including the popular Polaris RZR lineup. These machines are designed specifically for off-road performance, offering powerful engines, advanced suspension systems, and rugged durability that can handle the sandy trails and challenging terrain found around St. Helen.
Side-by-side vehicles like the Polaris RZR have become extremely popular in recent years because they combine the thrill of ATV riding with the comfort
and safety of a small off-road vehicle. With bucket seats, steering wheels, roll cages, and seat belts, riders can tackle rough trails while enjoying a stable and controlled ride.
The machines available through RZR RIPN’ Rentals are well maintained and ready for adventure. Each vehicle is carefully inspected and serviced to ensure that customers have a safe and reliable experience on the trails.
Another reason the business has become popular among visitors is the flexibility of its rental options. Riders can choose from several packages depending on how much time they want to spend exploring the trails.
Half-day rentals are perfect for riders who want a quick adventure or are trying the experience for the first time. Full-day rentals allow visitors to spend several hours exploring the trail system and visiting different riding areas around St. Helen.
For those who want a full weekend of riding, multi-day rental options make it easy to keep the
adventure going. Many visitors traveling to northern Michigan for vacation take advantage of these extended rentals so they can explore the trail system at their own pace.
Before customers head out, the
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staff provides a safety orientation and basic operating instructions. Even riders who have never driven a side-by-side before quickly feel comfortable behind the wheel after a short introduction.
One of the best aspects of renting a side-by-side is that the experience can be shared. Many of the machines seat multiple passengers, allowing families and groups of friends to ride together and enjoy the adventure as a team.
Visitors often make ORV riding the highlight of their trip to northern Michigan. Whether it’s a group of friends looking for a weekend of adrenaline-filled riding or a family exploring the trails together, the experience creates lasting memories.
The trails around St. Helen offer incredible scenery as well. Riders often encounter towering pine forests, quiet backcountry lakes, and wildlife along the trail system. It’s a unique way to see parts of Michigan’s natural landscape that many people never experience.
Businesses like RZR RIPN’ Rentals also play an
important role in introducing new riders to Michigan’s ORV community. Not everyone is ready to purchase their own machine, but a rental experience allows people to try the sport before making that investment.
For many riders, their first experience behind the wheel of a side-by-side sparks a long-term interest in trail riding and outdoor recreation. By making the sport accessible to more people, rental operations help support Michigan’s growing ORV culture and tourism industry.
Northern Michigan has long been known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, from fishing and boating in the summer to snowmobiling in the winter. ORV riding has become another major draw for visitors looking for excitement and adventure.
With its prime location, reliable equipment, and commitment to customer service, RZR RIPN’ Rentals has quickly become a favorite starting point for riders eager to explore the trails around St. Helen.
For anyone who wants to feel the power of a sideby-side machine, kick up some sand, and discover the incredible ORV trail system of northern Michigan, RZR RIPN’’ Rentals offers the perfect way to begin the journey. •
YOUR PERFECT OVERNIGHT TRIP.
Enjoy the Kewenawee trail and what the area has a to offer. Spend the night in Calumet at the beautiful AmericInn. Hit the trails for Silver City the next day and spend the night in AmericInn in Silver City. Great trails, great food and great trails!
