The latest fat-tire biking season is currently underway at the Silver Lake State Park ORV Area. The season runs from Dec. 15 to March 15 from 8 a.m. to dusk each day. Riders can enjoy 450 acres of open sand dunes, elevation changes of 80-100 feet, access to Lake Michigan and sunsets over the lake from the top of the dunes.
Those interested should park in the pedestrian parking lot at 8890 W. Shore Dr. in Mears.
Rules and tips
• The annual fat-tire biking season takes place Dec. 15-March 15 from 8 a.m. to dusk.
• Open riding is permitted within the boundaries of the designated 450-acre ORV area. Please do not enter the area utilized by Mac Woods. View map.
• Riders must enter the dunes using the down ramp of the ORV area.
• No e-bikes allowed.
• No reservations or preregistration are required.
• A valid Recreation Passport is required on all vehicles entering the parking lot. A self-pay station is available at the ORV Area parking lot entrance.
• Alcohol is prohibited.
• No drinking water is available. Please plan accordingly.
• Vault toilets (or outhouses) are located in the parking lot and in the dunes.
• There is limited refuse service provided for trash.
• Gates will open every day regardless of conditions, and it is the visitor’s discretion to enter the dunes.
• Riders are asked to call 911 in case of an emergency.
NOTE: The dunes are an everchanging environment. Drifts and freezing conditions can drastically change the landscape overnight.
If anyone has questions about shoreline riding, please contact the park at 231-873-3083.
