Horseback riders can explore the unique landscape of Silver Lake State Park in Oceana County during a special shoreline riding season Nov. 1-30 (except Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27).

Though the season is two months away, registration opens 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 1, at MiDNRReservations.com. The registration fee is $10 per horse per day, and 125 slots are available each day.

As the off-road vehicle season comes to an end Oct. 31, a designated horseback riding route is established. This route offers a peaceful ride along Lake Michigan, with towering dunes providing a stunning backdrop. Riders can use the parking lot within the Silver Lake ORV Area, 8960 W. Fox Road in Mears, as a staging area to unload and prepare their horses.

“The shoreline horseback riding season is one of two unique ways the DNR has expanded off-season outdoor recreation at Silver Lake,” said Jody Johnston, Silver Lake State Park manager. “We also offer a fat-tire biking season Dec. 15 to March 15 each year.”

Known for its 450 acres of motorized dune riding – the only opportunity of its kind east of the Mississippi River – Silver Lake State Park is a popular destination.

For links to both shoreline horseback riding and fat-tire biking seasons, including a registration link (horseback riding only), rules, maps, tips and other information, visit Michigan.gov/SilverLake.

Questions? Contact the park at 231-873-3083.