With April 1 marking the start of the 2026-27 ORV season in Michigan, riders soon will head to west Michigan for a unique and fun off-road riding experience: cruising the sloping sand dunes while taking in awe-inspiring views of Lake Michigan at the Silver Lake State Park ORV Scramble Area in Mears.
If you're planning an adventure at the park's popular ORV dune area, keep safety top of mind — this 450-acre scramble area features terrain much different from our state's traditional ORV trails and routes. Follow these Ride Right tips to keep everyone safe:
- "Keep your head on a swivel." Make a concerted effort to scan and observe in all directions while on the dunes.
- Always practice situational awareness. Be aware of the potential hazards that could affect you and other riders.
- Know what is beyond the crest of a hill before traveling up and over it.
- Always operate within your abilities and your vehicle's capabilities and keep your speed in check.
- Keep your wheels on the ground, and if you plan to stop/park, choose spots where you are visible from 360 degrees (avoid blind spots).
- Don't "show off" for friends and family members or spectators.
- Stay inside your vehicle while in the ORV area.
- Be aware of any dune-riding fatigue you may experience. Most crashes and incidents on the dunes occur later in the day.
Find more information about ORV riding at Silver Lake and across the state at Michigan.gov/ORVInfo. Visit Michigan.gov/RideRight for more safety information.
Questions? Contact Jody Johnston at 231-873-3083.