Iron County Lodging Association

Michigan ATV & ORV Trail Riding

More than 4,000 miles of the best ATV/ORV trails in Michigan!

Let’s rev up our off-road vehicle engines and venture out on more than 4,000 miles of the best ATV/ORV trails in Michigan. Michigan ATV/ORV trails host two-track, twisty single-track, rocky hill climbs and soggy mud bogs, and welcome dune buggies, dirt bikes, quads, and four-wheelers, inviting us to enjoy the muddy side of Pure Michigan.  

Dates to Remember

June 2026

August 2026

Riders have access to ALL of Michigan's 4,000 miles of off-road trails - PERMIT FREE! All other ORV rules and laws still apply, and the Recreation Passport is required where applicable. Mark your calendars; there are always two free weekends/year: June and August.  

Why Choose Iron County for Your ATV/OHV Trip?

We know you have choices when it comes to off-road destinations. Here's why Iron County stands out:

  • A Trail for Every Rider: With access to a massive trail system, you'll find a wide variety of riding experiences. From thrilling, tight single-tracks and challenging rocky climbs to scenic, leisurely routes, there's a trail to match your skill level and sense of adventure.

  • Ride Directly from Your Lodging: Many of our local lodging options offer direct access to the trail system. Park your trailer and ride right from your cabin, motel, or campground to the trails!

  • Stunning Natural Beauty: The Upper Peninsula is famous for its unspoiled wilderness, and Iron County is no exception. Ride through dense forests, alongside sparkling lakes and rivers, and experience the incredible beauty of Michigan's north woods.
  • More Than Just Trails: When you're ready for a break from riding, Iron County offers a wealth of other activities. Enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and exploring our charming small towns.

Planning Your Iron County Adventure

We've made it easy for you to plan your trip. Here's what you need to know:

Getting Here

Iron County, Michigan is located in the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, bordering Wisconsin.

Wondering how to get here? Just look up Iron River, Crystal Falls, or Caspian on your favorite map app. We just might be closer than you think!

  • 2.5 hours from Green Bay, WI
  • 4 hours from Milwaukee, WI
  • 4.5 hours from Madison, WI
  • 5 hours from Minneapolis, MN
  • 5.5 hours from Chicago, IL
Where to Stay

You'll find a variety of lodging options that cater to the needs of off-road enthusiasts. Many of our local motels, lodges, and campgrounds offer ample parking for trucks and trailers and direct trail access.

Michigan ORV Rules & Regulations

Please be sure to familiarize yourself with Michigan's ORV rules and regulations. By being a responsible operator, you help ensure these trails can be enjoyed for generations to come.

  • ORV License & Trail Permit: All ORVs are required to have a Michigan ORV license and trail permit. These can be purchased online from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or at many local businesses.

  • Non-Residents: The same licensing and permit requirements apply to non-residents.

  • Michigan DNR permits & requirements to ride

Trail Maps

Navigating our extensive trail system is easy with readily available trail maps. You can find maps at local businesses, and we recommend downloading a digital map to your phone or GPS device.

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Michigan’s ORV Trails & Riding Opportunities

Michigan offers many trail riding opportunities. Michigan’s public Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) trail/route system provides four types of riding opportunities: motorcycle trails, all terrain vehicle (ATV) trails, ORV routes which are open to ORVs of all sizes including Secretary of State licensed vehicles, and scramble areas.

There are SIX scramble areas, two of which are on state forests (St. Helen’s Motorsport Area and Black Lake Scramble Area), one at Silver Lake State Park, one at Bull Gap in the Huron National Forest, and one at The Mounds, a Genesee County Park.

The ORV trail/route system covers almost 4,000 miles with 73% on state forests. Of the system, 30% is cycle trail, 50% is ATV trail and 20% is route.

In the Lower Peninsula, the system is the only legal place to ride Non-Secretary of State licensed ORVs on public lands other than frozen waters.

In the Upper Peninsula, it is legal for ORVs to operate on state forest roads as well as the designated trail system, unless a specific state forest road is posted closed to ORV use. Trails are lightly groomed and riders are likely to encounter narrow sand trails, rough moguls, steep hills, stumps, rocks, brush, loose surfaces and other hazards.

Beyond the Trails: Exploring Iron County

When you're not on your ATV, there's plenty more to see and do in Iron County:

  • Fishing and Boating
    With hundreds of lakes and miles of rivers, Iron County is an angler's paradise.

  • Hiking and Biking
    Explore our beautiful forests on foot or by bike on our numerous hiking and biking trails.

  • Waterfalls
    Discover the beauty of our local waterfalls.

  • Museums and Historic Sites
    Learn about the rich mining and logging history of the area at our local museums.

  • Dining and Shopping
    Enjoy a delicious meal at one of our local restaurants and browse our unique shops.

Ready to Ride?

Start planning your Iron County off-road adventure today! With our incredible trails, beautiful scenery, and welcoming community, we're confident that you'll have an unforgettable experience.

Rewarding Places to Stay in Michigan

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AmericInn
by Wyndham

906-214-2308
906-265-9100
40 E Adams St
Iron River, MI 49935

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Chicaugon
Lake Inn

906-265-9244
1700 County Road 424
Gaastra, MI 49917

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Lakeshore Motel
Ice Lake

906-265-3611
1257 W Ice Lake Rd
Iron River, MI 49935

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Pioneer
Lodge

800-362-7853
373 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935

lodge
Ski Brule
Village

800-DO-BRULE
906-265-4957
397 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935

tallpines
Tall
Pines

906-822-7713
1968 US 141 Highway
Amasa, MI 49903

Iron County Michigan 2025 Visitor Guide

Iron County Michigan Visitors Guide

Iron County is one of the Upper Peninsula’s best kept secrets. From camping to fishing, hunting to canoeing, mountain biking to forest bathing – no matter your interests, the great outdoors and clear crisp air await you here.

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