Midwest Rider May/Jun 2021 by Midwest Sports Publishing Network

RiDER midwest

THE MIDWEST’S BEST OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE RESOURCE

May/June 2021 / Volume 1, Issue 1

midwestriders.com Over 100,000 Riders Strong

DiRT GUIDE

ERX EPIC EVENTS HAY DAYS IS ON

Midwest Rider

CONTENTS

12 Wisconsin

35 Rides

19 Dakota

38 Trailers

20 Minnesota

40 Mapping

30 Michigan

42 Events

We focus on Washburn County and challenge you to visit all 39-stops in this scenic county this summer. Visit Rushmore, roll down main street and explore over 650 miles of designated trails within the storied Black Hills of South Dakota. Find your True North in three of Minnesota’s most scenic riding areas – Explore the Iron Range, Ely and the North Shore of Lake Superior. Want to drive your ORV and boat all in the same day? Take a look at Michigan’s Silver Lake sand dunes. Let’s not forget Michigan’s scenic Keweenaw.

Anniversary

6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180 Eden Prairie MN 55346 800-989-6776 / 952-473-7870 fax: 952-473-7805 info@mspninc.com

Publisher Associate Publisher Managing Editor Associate Editor Art Director Advertising Sales Photo Archives

Grab the wheel or get behind the bars. These are the latest flagship models that can get you off the grid off-road. Sometimes the best memories are made beyond the horizon. Take your off-road passion beyond your backdoor with these trailers and accessories. Throw those wrinkled, hard to fold paper maps away. Find your way with these top of the heap digital mapping and navigation solutions. Not every off-road memory is made on the trail. Check out these best of summer events.

Joel Mellenthin Paula Jones Kale Wainer Pat Bourgeois Kasia Netley Diane Voight C.J. Ramstad

ADVERTISING MSPN Phone: 952-473-7870 or 800-989-MSPN Fax: 952-473-7805 sales@mspninc.com mspnads.com

Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials and photographs are welcome but cannot be returned unless sender provides a self-addressed stamped envelope. Midwest Rider and MSPN are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish in all or part. Copyright © 2021 by MSPN. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without consent of the publisher.

RiDER

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EDITOR’S NOTES

Midwest Rider

et me be the first to introduce you to the all-new Midwest Rider. A publication geared toward those of us who simply live to ride. To be honest, Midwest Rider isn’t really an all-new adventure for us. The truth is, the creative minds, marketing staff and editorial horsepower behind the publication have been professionally and passionately involved in powersports for decades, and collectively have over 100-years of hands-on experience. There’s little question that the powersports landscape has changed dramatically over the past 10-15 years. We’ve seen and lived it firsthand. As the “old guard” of enthusiasts fade into the sunset, a new generation of riders has come forward. Riders looking for new adventure, who are technologically savvy and ready to kick up the dust making their own tracks and memories. That’s where Midwest Rider steps in. While we all share the same passion to get out and explore the thousands of miles of trails and riding destinations across the midwest, we do it with a focus on creating memories over miles. Midwest Rider is here to help you unlock those opportunities with insights on destinations, trailside activities, the latest technology and accessories with quickhitting, photo packed insights that are relevant to today’s new generation of active riders. If you like what see with this first issue, we ask you to spread the word. In fact, let other riders in your circle enjoy Midwest Rider with you. All they have to do is drop us an email at info@mspninc.com to receive complimentary future issues. All they need to do is send us their name, mailing address and email and we’ll take care of the rest. So, with that, on behalf of myself, coeditor Kale Wainer and the entire staff at Midwest Rider, I invite you to turn the page and start making memories off-road. Pat Bourgeois

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Midwest Rider

GEARED

Better Vision with No Stink nosweatco.com

ipping the trails during the heat of summer can make a person sweat. Outside of a bag of hockey gear, your riding helmet or your favorite ball cap can get downright stinky. Then along came a sample set of No Sweat liners in our office swag box. Available for ball caps and helmets of all shapes and sizes, the moisture wicking material absorbs sweat when riding, keeping it out of your eyes, helping to reduce goggle or visor fog and keeping your lid smelling fresh. To apply you simply peel, stick and wear. The liners are thin and conform to your hat or helmet for a comfortable fit. In fact, after a few minutes you won’t even know you’re wearing one. Available in packs of three for less than $10 bucks and manufactured right here in the midwest, get yours before the heat of summer is here.

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Midwest Rider

INDUSTRY NEWS

polaris.com Polaris Inc. donated more than $80,000 to off-road and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) organizations across the United States as a part of its ongoing T.R.A.I.L.S Grant Program. The nine non-profit organizations awarded a Spring 2021 T.R.A.I.L.S grant received awards ranging from $6,000 to $10,000. The grants will support the development, improvement and expansion of trails, and help to educate riders on safe and responsible riding practices. The Spring 2021 T.R.A.I.L.S Grants recipients are: • Atlas Foundation (Dearborn Heights, Michigan) • Minnesota Kitty Cat Racers Association (Lindstrom, Minnesota) • Osseo Area Dusty Riders Inc. (Osseo, Wisconsin) • American Sand Association (Tempe, Arizona) • Christ Miami Corp. (Miami, Florida) • Garland Trail Hawks ATV Club (Garland, Maine) • Dexter Rail Riders (Dexter, Maine) • Millsfield ATV Club (Berlin, New Hampshire) • Heart of Oregon Corps., Inc. (Bend, Oregon) Since its inception in 2006, Polaris’ T.R.A.I.L.S Grants program has provided funding to national, state and local organizations in the United States to help support the future of ATV, snowmobiling and off-road riding. The T.R.A.I.L.S Grant program focuses on two main objectives: promoting safe and responsible riding and supporting environmental preservations and trail access. Organizations may use funds from the grant to increase and maintain land access through trail development, maintenance projects, safety and education initiatives and other projects. To date, the program has supported 324 ATV, off-road and snowmobiling organizations with more than $2.7 million in grants. Visit the T.R.A.I.L.S Grant program website on polaris.com for more information and to apply for a future grant.

derbycomplex.com Save the date! The World Championship Derby Complex has announced their 2nd annual Fall Motorsports Show & Swap at the famed Derby Complex in Eagle River, Wisconsin, August 2729, 2021 Visit their website for more information or call, 715-479-4424. Eagle River is home to the World’s Largest Chain of 28 connected lakes, is known as the Snowmobile Capital of the World and has some of the best ORV trail riding in the midwest. Visit eagleriver.org to learn more.

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Midwest Rider

TRAVEL WISCONSIN

More to Explore watva.org All-terrain vehicle and utility terrain vehicle riding is a growing sport in Wisconsin. Along with the privilege of enjoying the sport comes the responsibility of making sure you are operating these vehicles safely and responsibly. ATV and UTV operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 who are at least 12 years old for ATV (and at least 16 years old for UTV) must complete an ATV and UTV safety certification course in order to operate on public ATV/UTV trails and areas in Wisconsin. DNR Conservation Wardens recommend all ATV and UTV operators complete a safety course.

Definition of All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)

Wisconsin law defines an all-terrain vehicle as a commercially designed and manufactured motor-driven device which has a net weight of 900 pounds or less, was originally manufactured with a width of 50 inches or less, equipped with a seat designed to be straddled by the operator and which is designed by the manufacturer to travel on three or more tires. This includes small or child-sized ATVs. Certain ATVs that do not currently fit the ATV definition may be registered as UTVs.

Definition of Utility-Terrain Vehicle (UTV)

Wisconsin law defines a utility-terrain vehicle as a commercially designed and manufactured motor-driven device that is designed to be used primarily off highway, and originally manufactured and equipped with all of the following: a weight, without fluids, of 2,000 pounds or less; four or more tires; steering wheel; tail light; brake light; two headlights; width of not more than 65 inches; seat belts; and roll bar or similar device designed to reduce the likelihood that an occupant would be crushed as the result of a rollover. This includes small or child-sized UTVs. Vehicles that do not qualify as an ATV as 12 Midwest Rider 2021

defined but are commercially designed and manufactured, motor driven devices that contain three or more tires, a weight without fluids of 2000 pounds or less, a width of 65 inches or less and a seat designed to be straddled by the operator may also be registered as a UTV.

Display of Decals and Rear Registration Plate

ATVs and UTVs registered with the DNR are issued two decals. The decals must be displayed on both sides of the machine by its own adhesive, in a position which is forward of the operator and visible to law enforcement. Until decals are received by mail, operators must carry the temporary operating receipt issued for the machine. Operators should carry all necessary registration cards and paperwork with them for display to a law enforcement officer upon request. In addition, all ATVs and UTVs registered as public use will be required to furnish a rear plate that displays the registration number. Plates can be created or purchased. Plate specifications: • The plate must be a minimum of 4” in height and 7 1/2” wide and made of white material. • The registration number must be made of black lettering a minimum of 1 1/2” high with a minimum 3/16” stroke. • Only the four registration numbers and two letters need to be on the plate. The registration number can be found on both the decals and the registration card. • The owner must maintain the plate so it is in legible condition; and the plate shall be attached to the rear of the vehicle.

Midwest Rider

A 39-Stop Checklist Challenge washburncounty.org Washburn County, WI

e challenge you to take your Midwest Rider magazine with this summer and check off these 39 scenic sights in Washburn County Wisconsin. Take a photo of your ride at these stops and share them on the Washburn County, WI Facebook page with hashtags #VisitWashCo and #MidwestRider. Good Luck! 1 Silent Woods Benchmark Area - The area north of this point is a 725 acre unit on the Washburn County Forest set aside as a biological reserve. No harvesting or management has occurred in this unit since the white pine was removed in the late 1800s. It serves as a research area to determine biological conditions occurring without forest management. The focal point of this unit is the three plus miles of undisturbed river frontage on the Totogatic River. 2 Totogatic State Wild River - The Totogatic, dedicated in 2009 as a Wild & Scenic River, is a beautiful, undeveloped river crossing the northern portion of Washburn County. The Totogatic River begins in Bayfield County and ultimately meets up with the Namekagon River, a tributary of the St. 14 Midwest Rider 2021

Croix River. The lower portion of the river is quite calm and serene. The upper portion on the other hand is quite rugged and drops in elevation approximately 160 feet over a nine mile span. Legends surround the Totogatic River with stories of buried gold, spirits and murder. 3 Hemlocks Scientific Area - From this vantage point, the Totogatic Highlands Hemlock State Natural Area can be seen in the distance. This 160 acre old growth area lies about two miles due east and contains one of the western-most stands of Hemlock in Wisconsin. Old growth hardwood and cedar are also present on this very remote parcel of state owned lands within the Washburn County Forest.

WASHBURN COUNTY SCENIC TOUR CHECKLIST 4 Canadian National Bridge - In the past, ATV and snowmobile traffic on the Stony Brook Trail were required to cross the Canadian National Railroad on the Highway 77 Bridge. Due to concerns about mixing recreational vehicle traffic with road traffic, Washburn County applied for and received grant funds to construct a bridge over the railroad. This bridge was constructed in 2012. The bridge spans 98 feet and is 25 feet from the bottom of the bridge to the top of the rail. To the east of this point is a designated utility corridor on the Washburn County Forest, containing four pipelines. 5 Lost Lake Swamp - As you travel north along Trail 39, you can see the large expanse of the Lost Lake Acid bog through the trees to the east. This bog is over 1000 acres and contains a 41 acre lake in the center. This is one of only about 15 large bogs of this type in Wisconsin. There are legends of a derailed locomotive lost and buried in this swamp in the early 1900s. 6 Wetland Bridge - This bridge is a “puncheon” style wetland crossing structure. This bridge, and several others in this general area, was constructed as a “floating” bridge set on stringers over the top of wetlands. Wetland fill is strictly regulated by the state of Wisconsin and the Army Corps of Engineers. In order to link trail systems in northern Washburn County, wetland crossings were minimized but still necessary in some cases. These bridges were constructed under WDNR and Army Corps of Engineer permits. 7 Stony Brook Rest Area - Built in 2009, the Stony Brook Rest Area was built by the Minong Trails Club to provide ATVs with amenities such as a pavilion, grills, shelter, and public restrooms while on this beautiful stretch of trail. 8 Aspen Management - This is a young aspen forest. Aspen in managed forests are grown to approximately 50 years old and then clearcut. Aspen trees thrive in full sunlight and sites rapidly grow into thriving young forests. This site was harvested in 2009. 9 Minong Rifle Range - The Minong Rifle Range is owned by Washburn County and lies on county forest lands. The facility is maintained by local volunteers and was recently upgraded with the generous help of labor and funds from the Safari Club International Chapter in Minong. It is located a half mile north of this location on Taylor Lake Road. The facility includes a shooting shelter, trap range, and bathroom (if needed during your trail ride)! 10 Oak Lake Fire - This location is in the center of one of the largest forest fires in Wisconsin’s history. The Oak Lake Fire started on April 22, 1980 and burned over 16,000 acres and 159 structures. Over 200 firefighters worked on this fire and the cause was never proven. All of the forests in this area originated from that event. 11 Jack Links Beef Jerky - If you ever wondered where all of that amazing beef jerky is made, you found it! Minong is home to Jack Link’s Corporate Headquarters and is the location where the Link family began their jerky business. If you’re looking for the jerky outlet, stop on over to Henson’s Grocery, the Jack Link’s Outlet store.

12 Oak Management - This is a forest made up of red oak trees. Most red oak within northern Wisconsin exists due to an ecological coincidence; a mix of hardwood trees sprouted after the Pinery era in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Forest fires in the 1920s and 1930s killed many of the hardwood trees, but allowed oak to survive since its bark is resistant to fire. This area was thinned in 2008 and will be every 15-20 years until about 130 years of age, after which, it will need to be harvested and a new oak forest grown on this site. 13 Northern Hardwood Management - This is an area of northern hardwood timber type. Northern hardwood sites are generally dominated by sugar maple, basswood, ash, oak and yellow birch. These forests are generally thinned every 15 years. Each thinning opens small gaps in the canopy allowing northern hardwood to regenerate. 14 Tranus Lake Natural Area - This site marks the western boundary of the Tranus Lake State Natural Area on the Washburn County Forest. Tranus Lake is a 174 acre shallow lake with abundant vegetation, including native wild rice. 15 Biological Community Change - Wisconsin can be split into numerous ecological landscapes. This point is a general boundary between the Northwest Sands and North Central Forest landscapes. To the south, you will see sandier soils and forests dominated by pine trees. To the north you will see heavier soils and forests more dominated by aspen and hardwood. 16 Red Pine Management - This is a forest of planted red pine. Red pine was generally planted in areas of old farm fields or in some cases replanted on poor quality sites for other species. Red pine was planted on this site in 1976. Once these forests reach 30 years of age, they are thinned every 8 to 10 years until they reach 120 to 140 years of age, at which time they will be harvested and re-planted. 17 Lampson “Mall” - If you’re looking for a great photo opportunity, be sure to visit the Lampson “Mall,” Lampson’s claim to fame. 18 Hendricks Memorial - This area of red pine is designated as a memorial to Joseph Hendricks and the Hendricks Family. Joe spent most of his life as a logger, harvesting many timber sales on the Washburn County Forest. The memorial recognizes his and his family’s conservation ethic. The red pine on this site was planted in 1951 and the first three thinnings were harvested by Joe Hendricks. 19 Jack Pine Management - This is a forest of young jack pine trees. Historically, jack pine needed forest fires to regenerate, but today forest managers rely on ground disturbance with mechanical equipment to grow new jack pine forests. This site was prepared and harvested in 2013. 20 Namekagon River: Wisconsin’s Moving National Park - The Namekagon River is a nearly 100 mile long river which is a tributary to the St. Croix River and is protected under the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Most of the Namekagon portion of the river way is undeveloped, offering kayakers and canoeists a genuine wilderness May/June 2021 15

Midwest Rider experience. The riverbanks are abundant with deer, muskrat, beaver, turtles and blue herons. Here on the Great South Bend of the Namekagon was a natural campsite, home of a band of Chippewa Indians and long used by explorers, missionaries, and fur-traders traveling the Namekagon route between the St. Croix and Chippewa rivers. During the 1870s, ox teams hauled logging supplies on the tote road from Stillwater to Veazie Settlement, located two miles upriver where the great Veazie Dam impounded water for log drives down the Namekagon to Stillwater, Minnesota. 21 Excursion Train - Hop on board a historic train car and take a tour of Wisconsin’s beautiful Northwoods. Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad is a historical excursion train operating on approximately 20 miles of former Chicago and North Western track between the Northern Wisconsin towns of Spooner/Trego and Springbrook along the picturesque Namekagon River. 22 Giant Cowboy - The giant cowboy on the north side of Spooner has made Spooner his home for over 40 years. He started out at Mel’s Truck Stop on the south end of Spooner. In recent years, he moved to his current residence where he stands proudly at Bulik’s Amusement Center and reminds passersby of the annual professional rodeo held in Spooner every July. 23 Spooner Railroad Park - The city of Spooner was once a major hub of railroad activity for the four original rail lines, Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Omaha in the northwest region of the state; the crossing of these major lines quickly earned the name of “the great Omaha X.” With so many trains and rail lines being laid through the area, Spooner (originally known as the Chandler settlement), built a depot in 1902 along with a 26 stall roundhouse and turntable. A fire in 1925 destroyed a large portion of the roundhouse, leaving only seven stalls standing next to the turntable. A majority of the original Chicago and Northwestern Depot still stands and is home to the Railroad Memories Museum. 24 Long Lake: Walleye Capital of Wisconsin - Over 19 miles in length, Long Lake is known as the Walleye Capital of Wisconsin. This picturesque spring fed 3,300 acre lake is located in the southeastern part of Washburn County. Created by glaciers millions of years ago, it reaches depths of over 70 feet. Long Lake’s cool deep bays, gravel bars and rocky shorelines provide excellent walleye structure. 25 Homestead Site - This brushy area once contained a farm and a home. Little is known about the history of this specific site, but there are remnants of foundations in this area and on thousands like it across northern Wisconsin. Farming attempts here probably date back to the mid 1930s. Over time, little evidence is left and forests will eventually take over this site once again. 26 Grouse Management Unit - This sign marks the southern boundary of the Harmon Lake Grouse Management unit. Aspen forests within this unit are managed to create a range of aspen forest ages and sizes. This diversity provides ideal grouse habitat as well as a wide range of non-game species that rely on young forests to survive. 16 Midwest Rider 2021

27 White Birch Management - This is a forest with an abundance of white birch trees. White birch is a pioneer species and grows on recently disturbed ground. Historically, wildfires created seedbed conditions for white birch. On this site, ground was churned up with a dozer blade, allowing white birch to grow. 28 Beaver Brook Wildlife Area - Beaver Brook Wildlife Area is a 1,964 acre property located in south central Washburn County. Beaver Brook is one of the area’s premiere Class I brook and brown trout streams, fed along its course by 10 spring ponds and many bank seeps. Numerous wetlands associated with the brook, springs and lakes can be found throughout the property. Red oak stands, aspen, mixed hardwoods, upland and lowland brush, swamp hardwood and conifer, tamarack, pine, old fields and openings make up the other habitats of the wildlife area. Remnants of several homesteads can be found on the property, and remnants of an old logging dam built in 1870 and removed in 1910 are still visible near the mouth of Beaver Brook. 29 Washburn County Forest - A majority of the ATV trails in Washburn County lie on County Forest lands. The Washburn County Forest has existed since 1929, when the county first took possession of abandoned properties under tax delinquency. Today, the Washburn County Forest is 150,000 acres and part of a larger county forest system totaling 2.4 million acres. These lands are sustainably managed for forest products along with a wide variety of recreational opportunities, such as the ATV trail you are riding. These lands are established under a permanent program within Wisconsin Statutes called the County Forest Law. 30 Stone Archway - If you’re feeling adventurous and want to stretch your legs, carefully make your way down the side of the railroad grade to view a hand-crafted stone archway serving as a bridge over a dry wash (drains water during spring months). This archway appears to be handcrafted and fitted with limestone which is not readily available anywhere in Washburn County. A walk through this archway will have you feeling like you’re stepping back in time. Be sure to notice the unique fitting of blocks into the curved ceiling.

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WASHBURN COUNTY SCENIC TOUR CHECKLIST 31 Shell Lake’s Two Tailed Walleye - Shell Lake’s mascot, the walleye, is located along Highway 63 greeting visitors to this beautiful downtown park area. You are sure to notice there is something special about this fish; not only does he have one tail, he has two! 32 Birchwood: Bluegill Capital of Wisconsin - The southeastern portion of Washburn County, and the Washburn County Forest, lies within a geographical area termed the Birchwood Lakes. There are more than 125 lakes larger than 10 acres within this area. Many of the lakes are extremely deep (over 60 feet) and most have populations of panfish and bass. The lakes were formed during the last glacial period on terminal end moraines. One unique feature of many of the deeper lakes is they are set in sheltered basins with heavily timbered shorelines. This particular lake is Elbow Lake and has a public boat launch. 33 Berry Road Rest Area - In 2012, Washburn County constructed a trailhead and rest area at this location using user generated ATV grant funds. The facility includes a bathroom, pavilion, parking area, fire rings, grills and picnic tables. 34 Town of Sarona - The first settler arrived in what would soon be Sarona in 1898. The town was partially named after the first resident, Fran Sauer. With abundant farmland and the rail line passing through, Sarona was once a bustling community. The post office was established in 1899 and is still in operation. 35 Giant Bluegill - Located along the Tuscobia State Trail, this giant bluegill welcomes you to Birchwood. We’ve affectionately named him Billy and he LOVES getting his picture taken. Be sure to tag us in your photos #WashburnCounty. Billy represents the mighty (tasty) bluegill the Birchwood area lakes are so well known for. 36 Muskeg Bog - The wetland area alongside the trail here is a muskeg, also called a treed bog. There are acidic, sparsely wooded peat swamps. They often contain scattered black spruce and tamarack. They can be home to a number of rare animals and plants.

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37 Casey Creek - Casey Creek is a warm water stream originating at Casey Lake, approximately two miles upstream from this point. It feeds into Deer Lake, just downstream from this point. Casey Creek is one of the major tributaries to the Namekagon National Scenic River, just four miles downstream from here. 38 McKenzie Creek - A tributary to the McKenzie Lake Chain, McKenzie Creek is a Class I trout stream. The McKenzie Lake Chain consists of Lower, Middle and Big McKenzie and are connected by McKenzie Creek. 39 Town of Trego - Originally named Superior Junction, its name changed to Trego in roughly 1906. The first store and post office in Superior Junction were built in 1886. For many years, Trego was a major hub for blueberry shipments to the twin cities. The State Bank of Trego building, built in 1910, is still standing as a reminder of Trego’s long history.

Midwest Rider

RALLY THE BADLANDS There is no minimum age or license requirement for off-road drivers on trails. However, please follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on age and size requirements. ATVs/UTVs may be used on most roads and highways as long as they are registered and licensed. If you live in a state where ATVs/UTVs cannot be licensed for road use, you may not ride on roads in South Dakota unless you obtain a special road travel permit, available at any county courthouse in South Dakota.

Ride the 3rd Annual Custer Off-Road Rally June 11-13, 2021 custersd.com

blackhillsbadlands.com

The Custer Chamber is excited to host the 3rd Annual Custer Off-Road Rally. Load your ATV, UTV or Dual-Sport bike and enjoy riding hundreds of miles in the beautiful southern hills June 11-13, 2021. Enjoy a weekend packed with events including a poker run, live music, Mayor’s Ride, President’s Ride, awards banquet and more.

he Black Hills National Forest boasts one of the largest motorized trail systems in a National Forest open to vehicles 62 inches or less in width. It currently consists of more than 3,600 miles of open roads — over 650 miles are designated trails for all types of Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV) — and has 21 designated motorized trailheads.

Ride the 4th Annual Sturgis Off-Road Rally

The motorized trail system includes 90 miles of single-track trails for motorcycles, 347 miles of trails for vehicles 62 inches or less in width in South Dakota, and 72 miles of trails for vehicles 50 inches or less in width in Wyoming. There are also 148 miles of trails open to all. The system incorporates a large number of looped trails and has parking access from 20 trailheads.

OHV PERMITS

A Black Hills Motorized Trail Permit is required to access the South Dakota portion of the motorized trail system and when riding an unlicensed OHV on a forest road designated “open to all vehicles.” Permits are available as a seven-day consecutive pass ($20) or an annual pass ($25). Prices are subject to change. Permits may be purchased on the website above, or at any of the forest service offices, as well as the Black Hills Visitor Information Center.

RULES AND REGULATIONS

In South Dakota, state motorcycle law governs ATVs and UTVs. • On-the-road drivers need a licensed OHV, must be 14 years of age or older and possess a valid driver’s license. • ATV/UTV use is strictly prohibited on the interstate highway system at all times. • Eye protection is required for ATV/UTV operators on all public roads unless a windshield is in place. • Helmets are advised for all ATV/UTV operators and riders on all roads. Helmets are required by law for anyone under 18. • Operators on roads must be able to provide registration and proof of insurance.

Each driver registration will receive a goody bag full of fun items including a commemorative 2021 Off-Road Rally sticker and Custer County Search & Rescue bandana. Visit the website to register and learn more about accommodations and attractions in the Custer area. September 9-12, 2021 officialsturgisevents.com

The City of Sturgis Rally and Events Department, along with Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys, proudly present the 2021 4th Annual “STURGIS OFFROAD RALLY” September 9-12, 2021. Join them for four days of endless outdoor fun at the Sturgis Off-Road Rally. There’s nothing like spending a crisp fall weekend exploring over 3,000 miles of roads and trails in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Weekend events include a Show and Shine, poker runs, barrel races, self-guided rides, pole bending, socials and the always popular, Director’s Ride and navigation games. The fun begins Thursday, September 9, with on-site check-in starting at noon, then ending Sunday, September 12, with a “ride on your own” event. Everything in between is pure fun including the awards social being held on Saturday this year! For a schedule of events, visit the website and it’s important to note, you will need to have your rig licensed (temporary licensing available on Thursday and Friday at the Meade County building) and have a trail permit. May/June 2021 19

Midwest Rider

EXPLORE MINNESOTA Ride County Roads

More than 20 Minnesota counties allow some sort of ATV offroad travel on their rural or county roads. The use of these roads is made through local ordinance, and the details change from county to county. Before riding on county roads, call the county and check for the most up-to-date local rules and regulations. The information on this is subject to change, and additional counties may adapt their ordinances.

ATV Classification

An ATV’s width determines how ATVs are classified and where they can be ridden. Class I: An ATV with a total width of 50 inches or less. Class II: An ATV with a total width that is greater than 50 inches but not more than 65 inches wide. Vehicles not considered ATVs include: golf cars, mini-trucks, dune buggies, go-carts or vehicles designed and used specifically for lawn maintenance, agriculture, logging or mining purposes.

Find Your True North Minnesota has a thriving off-road recreation community made up of enthusiasts and volunteers who travel via all-terrain vehicles (ATV), off-road motorcycles (OHM) and off-road vehicles (ORV). There are more than 2,500 miles of official trails, and many more miles of accessible forest roads in state and national forests which continue to grow year after year.

Join the Club

Minnesota has active associations and clubs for ATV, offhighway motorcycles and off-road vehicles. Joining the associations and clubs provide access to insider information on trails and trail-building, events, vehicle information and people who enjoy the sports. To learn more, contact the All-Terrain Vehicle Association of Minnesota (ATVAM) at atvam.org; the Amateur Riders Motorcycle Association (ARMCA) at armca. org; or the Minnesota 4-Wheel Drive Association (MN4WDA) at mn4wda.com.

Off-highway vehicles belonging to Minnesota residents must be registered with the DNR to operate in Minnesota, with very few exceptions. This includes off-road vehicles licensed for highway use, such as motorcycles and trucks, that are also operated on designated trails. Machines can be registered at any DMV office, at the DNR office in St. Paul or online at mndnr.gov. The cost for registration varies.

Non-Resident Trail Passes

A trail pass is required for all non-Minnesota residents with vehicles registered in another state. The trail pass grants access to Minnesota’s state or Grant-in-Aid trails. Non-resident passes may be purchased by phone, online or inperson. Some processing fees may apply, and duplicate passes are available. Purchase a pass online at dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/ohv; by calling 888-665-4236; or in person at the DNR central office, or at any place that sells DNR licenses (including many convenience stores).

State Forest Lands

Safety Training Requirements

Roads and access levels are classified as such: Managed: Off-highway vehicles (ATVs/ORVs/OHMs) are allowed on roads, routes, and on designated trails. ATV travel off routes, roads and designated trail is prohibited except when hunter/ trapper exception applies.

Off-Highway Motorcycle

Off-highway vehicles are permitted in all but eight of the state’s 56 state forests, though vehicle drivers need to pay attention to the vehicle classifications allowed on each road and trail. Note some forests can have multiple classifications. For a complete list of classifications, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/regulations/ ohv/stateforests.

Limited: Off-highway vehicles (ATVs/ORVs/OHMs), may be operated on signed roads and trails designated for a vehicle type. ATV travel off of signed motor vehicles trails or forest roads is prohibited except when hunter/trapper exception applies. Closed: Off-highway vehicles are prohibited in this forest. 20 Midwest Rider 2021

ATV Safety training is mandatory for anyone born after July 1, 1987. Those 16 and older can complete an online safety class. Youth age 6 to 15 must complete both an online course and handson safety. For more information, go to dnr.state.mn.us/safety/ vehicle/atv. OHM drivers between the ages of 6 and 15 years are required to have an OHM certificate to operate on public lands, frozen waters, and state or Grant-in-Aid trails in Minnesota. A certificate is given upon completion of the online class. For more information, go to dnr.state.mn.us/safety/vehicle/ohm.

Off-Road Vehicle

ORVs may not be operated by anyone under age 16. An ORV environmental and safety training course is available on a USB flash drive for persons 16 or older. To request a flash drive, call 800-366-8917.

Midwest Rider undreds of miles of ATV and OHV off-roading trails network throughout the Iron Range and you’ll find secluded spots, great overlooks or mudding trails around every turn. And don’t forget trailside lodging, dining and camping.

Iron Range Off-Hwy Vehicle Recreation Area

Gilbert is home to this 3,600acre park with trails exclusively for ATVs, UTVs, 4X4 vehicles and motorcycles. Start in Gilbert and head to Eveleth – restaurants, camping and lodging – using the Genoa Trail, or go into Virginia and cross the state’s tallest bridge. Both towns are ATV-friendly with routes to places to eat and stay. The park is managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and covers 49 miles of trails. Trails are well marked to indicate the level of difficulty. Entry is free with licensed machine and there’s even a wash station. The views are spectacular and this playground is open year-round except for deer season.

Ranger Trails

This multi-use trail connects the communities of Biwabik, Aurora and Hoyt Lakes on a 22-mile scenic ride through the Superior National Forest. Find trailer parking in Biwabik and Hoyt Lakes. Plenty of places to eat and camp, plus hotels nearby. These trails are close to the OHVRA (above) but not connected by trail at this time.

Northern Traxx

Explore Minnesota’s Iron Range ironrange.org

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Follow the Northern Traxx Trail out of ATV-friendly Chisholm and head north to the Side Lake area for camping, restaurants and forest scenery. This trail is open year-round except for deer season. Covering 22 miles, the Northern Traxx Trail passes through tall pines and connects to the Taconite state snowmobile trail. Go south out of Chisholm and connect with Hibbing, five miles away, by passing through the RedHead Mountain Bike Park. Find your way to food, gas and lodging on either end of this trail.

ADVENTURE EVERY DAY TACONITE STATE TRAIL – BIG ASPEN CONNECTION

Distance: 18 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From the trail intersection with US Highway 53, eastward (toward Tower) for 2 miles and westward (toward McCarthy Beach State Park for 15 miles. The Taconite Trail winds through forests of birch and aspen intertwined with pine, leading the visitor past many isolated lakes and streams. Portions of the trail are open to ATV (Class 1 & 2) and off-highway motorcycle (OHM), conditions permitting. From the trail intersection with US Highway 53, ATV & OHM use is allowed eastward (toward Tower) for about 2 miles and westward (toward McCarthy Beach State Park) for about 15 miles. OHV use ends at the trail intersection with St. Louis County Highway 65.

BIGFORK AND BALSAM (B&B) CONNECTION

Distance: 33 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): The trail head is a large parking area south of Bigfork on Highway 38, just west on Rajala Mill Road. The trail travels SSE to connect with the Little Moose Trail off Highway 7 in Balsam. Facilities: Food, fuel, restrooms This 33-mile Grant-in-Aid trail traverses portions of the Chippewa National Forest, George Washington State Forest and Itasca County lands from Bigfork to Balsam (B&B). Approximately 20 miles of trail for OHV use, 10 miles are federal and state forest roads and the remaining follow county road corridors. There are eight boardwalks/ bridges totaling over a 1/4-mile. The trail travels through low meadows, marshes, aspen and pine forests as well as gravel outcroppings. You will see streams, ponds and views of lakes in the distance. Wildlife sightings are common. Food and fuel are available near the trail head, the midway point near mile marker 15 and a few short miles from the end of the trail. The trail is maintained by the Wilderness Wheelers ATV Club headquartered in Bigfork, MN.

LITTLE MOOSE TRAIL

Distance: 18 Miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): 18 miles north on Highway 65 from Nashwauk; parking on west side of highway Facilities: Grand Rapids: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Balsam food, fuel, restrooms This 18-mile trail in eastern Itasca County traverses the George Washington State Forest. Forested areas vary from densely wooded to harvested pine opening to wide views of the surrounding landscape. The trail travels by Hartley, Scooty and Wolf lakes and crosses the west fork of the Prairie River. Itasca County and the Balsam Trail Blazers maintain the Little Moose Trail.

ALBORN-PENGILLY RAILROAD TRAIL

Distance: 39 Miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Along right-of-ways within Alborn, Meadowlands and Pengilly Facilities: Pengilly/Hibbing: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Alborn/ Meadowlands: food and restrooms

The trail climbs steeply to several breathtaking overlooks including a great view of Whitewater Lake as well as several mines and pits of the Iron Range. The trail crosses the Partridge and Embarrass River. Trails are provided by St. Louis County and maintained by the Ranger Snowmobile and ATV Club. Bikers, hikers, horseback riders allowed on trail. See map for parking available in Biwabik, near Giants Ridge, and in Hoyt Lakes.

CHISHOLM TRAIL

Distance: 25 Miles Difficulty: Easiest to Most Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Access in Chisholm and the intersection of Highway 5 and Connors Road Facilities: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging This 15.7-mile trail located in northeast Minnesota winds riders across rolling hills and through mature forest. Where the trail ties into the Shannon Lake State Forest Rd, the signed route continues for 9.5 miles, connecting to Side Lake for a total trail length of 25.2 miles. Rated easy to moderately difficult, it offers hills to climb and hairpin corners to maneuver. The ATV-friendly communities of Chisholm and Side Lake offer gas, lodging and food within riding distance from the trail. Parking and riding in Chisholm is allowed between 6 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. The trail is provided by the city of Chisholm and maintained by the Northern Traxx ATV Club. OHMs are NOT allowed to operate on county road rights-of-way.

GOODLAND TRAIL

Distance: 19 Miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Access in Goodland on Highway 65 or in Pengilly Facilities: Pengilly: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Goodland: fuel, restrooms Passing by lakes and bogs, this 19-mile trail connects the AlbornPengilly Railroad Trail to the town of Goodland. Set in the northern hardwoods landscape of Minnesota, it makes for a particularly colorful ride in the fall. The trail is provided by Itasca County, the Itasca Trail Riders ATV Club and the Red Rock Riders.

THISTLEDEW TRAILS

Distance: 25 Miles Difficulty: More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): 35 miles north of Nashwauk on Highway 65 then left on Highway 1 for 3.5 miles. Continue north on County Road 452 to parking Facilities: Grand Rapids: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Togo: food The Thistledew Trails are a 25-mile system consisting of a north and south loop located within George Washington State Forest. The trail passes through rolling hills of mature pine and aspen forest. Both loops are managed for ATV and horseback riding, so please watch for other riders.

This 39-mile trail follows a repurposed railroad grade between Pengilly and Alborn in northeast Minnesota. Traveling through wooded bogs and upload forests, riders cross old railroad trestles with scenic views of the streams and rivers below. The flat grade and minor terrain variation are ideal for novice riders. Trail maintenance is provided by Itasca County and the Range Riders ATV Club.

EAST RANGE MULTI-USE TRAIL

Distance: 22 Miles Difficulty: Easiest to Most Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Biwabik, Giant’s Ridge and Hoyt Lakes Facilities: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging Twenty-two miles of wide multi-use trail provide access to Hoyt Lakes, Aurora, Biwabik and Giants Ridge on routes and old mining roads. May/June 2021 23

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Connecting Ely, Babbitt, Embarrass, Soudan and Tower prospector.ridetrails.org, ely.org Prospector Loop ATV Trail System

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PROSPECTORS LOOP he Prospector ATV Club is creating a new ATV trail system that will connect five communities (Ely, Babbitt, Embarrass, Soudan and Tower, MN), two state parks (Bear Head Lake State Park and Lake Vermilion State Park) and the Lake County Regional ATV Trail. According to the Prospector’s website, construction is scheduled to be completed by June 30, 2021. They note, other than the Beaver River crossing (between the Taconite Trail and Babbitt), all sections should be open and ridable starting in the spring of 2021. These sections are signed and open to Class 1 and 2 ATVs along with off highway motorcycles. We’d suggest following their website and social media pages for more announcements. The Prospector Alliance considers the availability of destination travel routes throughout the northland, a key consideration in providing public access through ATV use to many desired locations. Connecting communities with such features as Soudan Underground Mine State Park, Lake Vermilion State Park, Bear Head Lake State Park and a variety of other features within the Superior National Forest is a key component to enabling the use and access of these wonderful attributes Minnesota has to offer.

BEAR HEAD LAKE STATE PARK

Address: 9301 Bear Head State Park Road, Ely, MN 55731 Phone: 218-235-2520 Email: bearhead.statepark@state.mn.us Secluded in the Northwoods, this park contains pristine lakes; it is home to black bears, nesting eagles, wolves and moose. Stands of white and red pine trees tower over the birch, aspen and fir trees. Located just south of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, the park shares a similar wilderness quality. Explore miles of shoreline by canoe. Swim at the beach, picnic in the shelter building, or fish for walleye, bass, crappies or trout. Trails in the park link-up with the Taconite State Trail and offer snowmobilers, skiers and hikers plenty to enjoy. Rent a threebedroom guest house or camper cabin any season of the year.

LAKE VERMILION-SOUDAN UNDERGROUND MINE STATE PARK

Address: Summer Mine Entrance: 1302 McKinley Park Road, Soudan, MN 55782 Phone: 218-300-7000 Email: lakevermilion-soudan.statepark@state.mn.us Adventure abounds at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park! Tour the historic underground mine, take a boat out or cast a line on Lake Vermilion, or hike through acres of old growth pine forest. Nearly 3,000 acres and five miles of Lake Vermilion shoreline add even more opportunities to experience the wonders of northern Minnesota.

SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST

Website: fs.usda.org/superior More Information: Main Office, Duluth: 218-626-4300 Superior National Forest has more than 2,000 miles of recreational trails for all types of uses, including off-highway vehicles. It offers incredible riding opportunities in its nearly 450,000 acres of pine, fir and spruce. Make sure to bring the latest Motor Vehicle Use maps, which are available in print, as downloads for smart phones or computers. Maps are updated annually – if there is a question on road/trail access, the map is the final authority, not trail signs. If a road or trail you find in the forest is not on the map, it is not legal for you to ride it, regardless if others have done so. Off-trail travel is not permitted.

STONY SPUR II AND JACKPOT TRAIL

Distance: 55 miles (combined network) Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): One mile west of Babbitt at the junction of County Road 70 and 21: Access the eastern part of Jackpot on County Road 2 near Wampus Lake, about 15 miles west of Isabella Facilities: Babbitt: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging The 25-mile Stony Spur II and the 30-mile Jackpot Trail show off a diverse landscape —stands of aspen, cedar, maple, pine and birch; some water crossings; a dip into Bear Island State Forest and scenes of the Stony River, which parts of the trail parallel. Make a stop at the Snort Lake Gravel Pit, which is a climb-and-play area for ATVs. Be prepared to ride some forest roads before getting into the thick of the loop. The trails are a project of the city of Babbitt and are maintained by the Babbitt ATV/Snowmobile Club.

TOWER MULTI-USE TRAIL

Distance: 2 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking and trail access is in the city of Tower at Poplar St. and at the trail’s north end on Township Road 4596. Facilities: Tower: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging A short-but-sweet trail, this connects the city of Tower and the public beach and campground at McKinley, on Lake Vermilion. The trail leaves Tower on both the east and west sides. The City of Tower and the Minnesota DNR maintain this trail.

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Two Harbors, Finland, Silver Bay and Grand Marais wildcountryatv.com, northshorevisitor.com Wild Country ATV Club

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NORTH SHORE estled along the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior is Two Harbors, Minnesota. This quaint, picturesque, lakeside town boasts a rich lake history. An outdoorsman paradise, the town is home to several rivers, waterfalls, lakes, state parks and breathtaking scenery. As the largest town on the shore, Two Harbors has many community events, local businesses and lodging accommodations to keep you in the area. Serving as a superb launching destination for your ATV ride on the North Shore, you’ll discover the Wild Country ATV Club. They are committed to safe and responsible riding on the North Shore and are involved in ATV safety for youth riders, organized rides around the region, and promoting the area to visiting off-road enthusiasts. They maintain the Wild Country ATV Trail outlined on these pages which can lead you further north up the shore through Silver Bay, Finland and Grand Marais. Enjoy your ride and extended stay.

WILD COUNTRY TRAIL

Distance: 30 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is located east of the intersection of Lake County Highway 2 and Alger Grade Facilities: Two Harbors / Silver Bay: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging Icons: Class 1&2 ATV Here is the ATV trail providing riders the North Shore Trail experience, as it follows, for the most part, a section of the popular snowmobile route. The non-frozen features of this trail include overlooks of Lake Superior, bogs, rivers, streams and four designated picnic areas (with restrooms). Start at the trailhead at the Lake County Demonstration Forest, with options to connect to the Moose Walk and Red Dot trails. A portion of the trail follows the Alger Grade Logging Railroad bed. Lake County gravel roads are also open to ATV use.

RED DOT, MOOSE WALK & MOOSE RUN TRAILS

Trek to the Trestle trestleinn.com

The Trestle Inn gets its name based on being built out of an old railroad trestle (bridge) located four miles from where the Trestle sits now. The old timbers give the Trestle Inn a unique feel and character. Centrally located in the middle of Isabella, Tofte and Finland, the Trestle has some of the best trailside burgers on your North Shore riding adventure.

Dangerously Good Brews castledangerbrewery.com

When the ride ends, visit Castle Danger Brewery in downtown Two Harbors. This Minnesota-famous brewery features a 30 barrel brewing system, a canning line, and a taproom overlooking Lake Superior. Visitors are welcome to taste their delectable brews in their contemporary yet rustic taproom with attached outdoor patio. They offer a selection of current signature brews as well as a list of rotating taproom releases such as our favorites, ODE IPA, North Shore Lager, or the heavyhitter, George Hunter Stout.

Distance: Red Dot: 30 miles; Moose Walk: 22 miles; Moose Run: 12 miles Difficulty: Red Dot / Moose Walk: Easiest to More Difficult; Moose Run: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Red Dot and Moose Walk (south): On Highway 4 out of Beaver Bay and in Silver Bay on Highway 5. Moose Walk (north) and Moose Run: Lake County Highway 7 west at Finland or east of County Road 701 for about 2 miles. Facilities: Silver Bay / Beaver Bay / Finland: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging, camping Icons: Class 1&2 ATV The trail system shows off the natural beauty between the towns of Silver Bay, Beaver Bay and Finland, with more than 60 miles of scenic opportunity along Lake Superior’s North Shore. The Red Dot links Silver Bay and Beaver Bay and then makes a swing through Tettegouche State Park. It offers high, vast vistas over the great lake and tall stands of spruce and pine. There are picnic areas, shelters, restrooms and camping locations throughout the network, as well as lodging and fuel in the towns. The Moose Walk Trail heads north from Red Dot toward Finland and the Moose Run Trail. These are remote, hilly and winding trails through the Sawtooth Mountains. May/June 2021 27

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northshorevisitor.com TWO HARBORS

Entering Two Harbors you will find a number of shops right along Highway 61, but be sure to take a right at the first or second stoplight and drive downtown. A pleasant waterfront area includes museums, shops, and restaurants. Perfect for a shopping stroll. As the largest town on the north shore, Two Harbors has the widest variety of everything you need – Polaris dealership, auto parts, pharmacies, groceries – plus everything you want.

BEAVER BAY

The small community of Beaver Bay has an eclectic mix of interesting shops including Beaver Bay Sports, a BRP and CFMOTO dealership, all on Highway 61. Park the car and include a visit on both sides of the highway. A mile northeast of downtown, at Split Rock, you will find a small state park gift shop as you drive in, and a large shop in the visitor center.

GRAND MARAIS

Second in size to Two Harbors, Grand Marais distinguishes itself with several art galleries and studios, a wide range of gift shops, purveyors of outdoor gear, and suppliers of sundries and necessities. 28 Midwest Rider 2021

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thinkdunes.com Think Dunes: Silver Lake Sand Dunes

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SILVER LAKE ORV AREA Three Ways to Explore the Dunes Your Way

1. You can rent dune buggies and other ORVs from several places in town, look at Silver Lake Buggy Rentals and Wild Bill’s ATVs for more information. 2. You can buy a ticket for the iconic Mac Wood’s Dune Rides, which lets you experience the dunes with an experienced driver at the wheel. 3. You can take your own vehicle up on the dunes with the proper permit and flag. The Silver Lake Sand Dunes consist of 2,000 acres of towering dunes between Silver Lake and Lake Michigan. The ORV area covers the northern third of the dunes while the southern third is reserved for Mac Wood’s Dune Rides, which was scheduled to open this year on May 14. The middle third of the dunes is open to hikers and sunbathers who arrive by boat across Silver Lake or by an access point near the north end of Silver Lake.

Several Changes Improve Experience for ORV Enthusiasts at Silver Lake Sand Dunes

The COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench in lots of things last year, including operations at Silver Lake State Park’s ORV Area. If you didn’t make it up to the dunes in 2020, you weren’t alone.

Some places to stay, restaurants and attractions in Silver Lake are scheduled to open in April in conjunction with the ORV Area, while others open later in the spring. The seasonal destination really kicks into gear around Mother’s Day, and most everything is open by the middle of May.

But when you return to Silver Lake this year, you’ll be in for some surprises. There’s a bunch of new stuff making the Silver Lake Sand Dunes better than ever. For one, there now are vault toilets placed within the 450 acres of sand dunes that are open to ORVs. “It sounds funny, but there weren’t any restrooms out there so people had to leave the dunes and come all the way back down to the parking areas to use the restrooms,” said Scott Beal, executive director of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes – Hart Visitors Bureau. “They now have them in three different locations.”

New Parking Lot for Trailers

The state park has opened a new parking lot for vehicles used to trailer in dune buggies and other ORVs that are not street legal. While there’s never been an official limit on the number of vehicles that can drive around the dunes at the same time, inadequate trailer parking resulted in a practical limit. Now, the DNR has created hundreds of new parking spaces for trailers in a new lot, ensuring enough parking for the Silver Lake Sand Dunes on all but the busiest summer weekends and holidays.

Two Lane Entrance Ramp, Shorter Lines

In addition to a better parking experience, an expanded entrance ramp now makes it easier for vehicles to get up on the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. What used to be a one-lane road leading to the dunes past a DNR checkpoint now has two lanes. Traffic flow is much improved and lines to get onto the dunes are now much shorter, eliminating waits that were up to an hour long at times in the past.

Food Truck on the Dunes

Lighthouse Concessions has contracted with the DNR to operate two food trucks in the southwest corner of the ORV Area near Lake Michigan. Visitors can get a burger, snacks and drinks without having to leave the Silver Lake Sand Dunes and come back into town. The food truck will get taken up onto the dunes in the spring and remain there throughout the season. May/June 2021 31

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Keweenaw keweenaw.info

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EXPLORE COPPER COUNTRY here’s no better way to access the Keweenaw’s natural wonders, terrain, and history than by ORV. Glide along the coast of Lake Superior or ride through ghost towns hidden among the vast Keweenaw forestlands. Trails on the peninsula run from Mass City in the south all the way to Copper Harbor in the north. Many of the trails use old railway grades built to transport copper ore and timber during the Copper Country’s mining heyday. Most communities can be accessed by trail with plenty of opportunities for fuel stops, dining, and lodging.

Local Recommendations •

High Rock Bay Photo Op: Perhaps one of the most “Instagram-able” locations in the Keweenaw, riders should make the trip up to Copper Harbor and take the trail to High Rock Bay. You’ll be rewarded with epic views of Lake Superior at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Seldom visited by most tourists, this breathtaking ride takes you along old logging trails and is well worth the effort.

• Get Out on the Big Lake: Lake Superior is the world’s largest body of freshwater containing nearly 10 percent of Earth’s fresh surface water. You can access the best of the great lakes by ORV and visit some pretty impressive sites like Fish Cove. •

Visit a Ghost Town: You’ll pass through quiet ruins of former mining towns that churned out copper ore back in the 1800s and early 1900s. Much of the original stone and brick structures have been reclaimed by nature, but you can’t miss the towering smokestacks that mark forming mining activities like smelters. If you choose to explore these areas, be very careful as the structures are almost completely unmaintained and unstable.

•

Sample the Local Brews: Whether it’s Michigan’s northernmost brewery in Copper Harbor or arguably Michigan’s oldest bar, the Keweenaw has a pretty impressive line-up of watering holes. Enjoy responsibly.

Plan Your Ride

You can put a lot of miles on your ORV when traveling along the Keweenaw. With more than 160 miles of trail, it’s best to plan ahead and make sure you know where you can fuel up and grab a bite to eat. It can be a long walk to the nearest gas station. As you drive north, you will encounter areas with little or no cell service, so do not rely on your phone to show for navigation. Be sure to chart your course and bring a map.

Get Your Permit

Trails from Mass City to Calumet are State of Michigan DNR RailTrails and are multi-use. That means other non-motorized users may be on the trail. Get your Michigan DNR ATV license online. Doing so helps to provide financial resources to keep trails in top shape.

How To Cross The Portage Lake Lift Bridge

The Portage Lake Lift Bridge is the only way (at least “by land”) to cross the Portage Canal from Houghton to Hancock. You can trailer across the bridge, but it’s a lot more fun to ride your ORV under it! But you’ll need an escort if you choose to cross on your ORV. The City of Houghton Police Department will give off-road vehicles escorts across the Portage Lake Lift Bridge. Please call 906-482-2121 from the intersection of Trail #3 and the Canal Road. You’ll be asked to sign a waiver and the officers will open the gate and allow you to go through the City of Houghton’s RV Park.

ORV Escort Times

Officers provide ATV escorts seven days a week, provided they are available, at the following times: 9:15 a.m., 2:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. (ATVs and side-by-sides only. Sorry, no jeeps, pickups, full-size vehicles, converted 4X4s or dirt bikes. Minimum of two machines to be escorted.)

Trailhead Parking

If you’re hauling a trailer and need parking to access a trailhead public parking is available at the following locations: Copper Harbor, AmericInn of Calumet, The Vansville Bar in Phoenix, The Ramada Inn of Hancock, Lac La Belle Lodge, and Kauppi’s Marina in Gay.

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FLAGSHIPS

A Round Up of the Latest Off-Road Vehicles

1. CAN-AM / XMR 1000R

2. ARGO / Sherp Pro XT

3. ARCTIC CAT / Alterra 600 EPS

Renegade picks up where the limits end. The most powerful family of sport ATVs available anywhere, merging race-proven performance and protection to lead the pack through seriously challenging terrain. At 91-hp, Renegade 1000R models are the most powerful ATVs on the market, ready to attack and survive the toughest trails or mud holes.

Bigger. Bolder. Beastier. These three powerful statements set par for the course when designing the ARGO Sherp Pro XT. It gives you more technology, innovative features, and a vehicle unmatched by any other to traverse terrain. The highquality craftsmanship is second to none, inside and out. And if you’re lucky enough to drive a Sherp Pro XT, you might never get out of the driver’s seat — comfort is king. The commercial applications for the Sherp are unlimited, and what about its ability to pack swamps for snow groomers without getting stuck? Yes, please.

The all-new Alterra 600 ATVs have been rethought from the ground up to be one of the most formidable ATV offerings in the 2022 Arctic Cat line-up. The new chassis has been performance-engineered with a lower center of gravity and nod to narrow ergonomics so the rider can push the Alterra further than ever – easier. The Alterra gains speed and responsiveness via an entirely new 600cc single-cylinder, EFI engine backed by a new drivetrain and performance-spec clutching.

can-am.brp.com

Starting MSRP: $15,149

argoxtv.com

arcticcat.com

Starting MSRP: $8,399

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4 6

4. CFMOTO / ZForce 950 Sport

5. HONDA / Talon 1000X Fox Live Valve

6. KAWASAKI / Teryx KRX 1000 Special Edition

You’ve always dreamed of owning the perfect UTV. One that lets you explore where you want to go and ride like you want to ride. One that can handle the tough terrain, yet look like a million bucks. And one that has not just a bell or whistle, but ALL the bells and whistles – standard. CFMoto lets you Ride Without Compromise with superior quality and affordable pricing. Their ZFORCE 950 Sport is just the UTV you’ve been looking for. Standard features include a powerful V-twin performance engine, 14-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 27-inch radial tires, 3,000lb winch, roof, tilt steering, LED taillights, DC-power and USB outlets. The best part is the price at $13,199.

The Honda Talon family of side by sides have shown the world just how good a sporting side-by-side can be. And with the addition of FOX Live Valve-equipped models, they’re even better. Here’s what you need to know: Every Talon in the Honda lineup shares the same industry-exclusive Automatic DCT Transmission, i-4WD technology and is complemented by a powerful, high-output engine. New for 2021, the Talon 1000X is available with FOX Live Valve suspension for the best off-road handling you’ve ever experienced, and it’s offered in Pearl White/Metallic Blue.

Built from the ground up to be the ultimate sport side x sides, the Teryx KRX 1000 is not to be denied by the world’s toughest trails. The Teryx KRX 1000 inspires confidence with a terrain-taming combination of power, performance and capability. The Special Edition adds High-grade HIFONICS Bluetooth/AM/FM audio system, WARN VRX 45 powersport winch and Special Edition color and graphics.

cfmotousa.com

Starting MSRP: $13,199 36 Midwest Rider 2021

powersports.honda.com

Starting MSRP: $22,099

kawasaki.com

Starting MSRP: $22,599

FLAGSHIPS

7. POLARIS / General XP 1000 Deluxe

8. SUZUKI / KingQuad 750AXi Power Steering SE

9. YAMAHA / Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition

XP elevates off-road performance, comfort and utility making it the world’s most capable crossover sideby-side. With a 64-inch stance, 30inch Pro Armor tires, high clearance A-arms and Walker Evans Velocity shocks and 100 horsepower, it will take you on adventures others can only dream of. The Deluxe gets you a 4,500lb winch, Rockford Fosgate Stage 1 Audio system, poly sport roof, convex rear-view mirror and lowprofile sport bumper.

Suzuki, the inventor of the 4-wheel ATV, has created the world’s best sport-utility quad with bold styling and more capability and reliability than ever before. The legacy of the iconic KingQuad remains fresh and exciting. Matte gray bodywork, blacked-out cast aluminum wheels and electronic power steering complete the KingQuad SE.

The Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition is feature rich and powerpacked for max comfort of up to four adults. The RMAX4 versatility has best-in-class power delivery, FOX® iQS suspension technology, fully integrated stereo system, and more cabin comfort touch points than any other vehicle in its class.

polaris.com

suzukicycles.com

Starting MSRP: $10,599

yamahamotorsports.com

Starting MSRP: $25,299

Starting MSRP: $22,999

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A Round Up of the Latest Trailers and Accessories

1. FLOE / Versa-Max RT

2. MARLON / Xplore II SxS Deck

3. SHOCKSTRAP / 2” Ratchet Safety Strap

4. TRITON / Enclosed Prestige Series

If you’re looking for an open place trailer for both dirt and snow needs, FLOE’s Versa-Max RT (Ramp Trailers) can take whatever you dish out. These 102-inch wide trailers have user-friendly features to simplify your hauling. Standard features include: Versa-Track– the infinite tie-down system, custom aluminum extrusions adding structural integrity to the frame, reinforced tongue, fully molded wiring, commercial grade LED lights, electric brakes available on all models, galvanized, independent rubber torsion axle system, vortex hub system – no maintenance for six years, limited 10 year warranty and available in 12′, 16′, 22′ and 28’ lengths.

Designed to carry 2 and 4 door UTVs up to 120” max length. Comes standard with 10-foot ramps with 4-inch side safety edges. The Marlon Xplore II SXS Deck is specifically designed so you don’t lose any turning radius pulling a trailer. The solid mount winch plate will accommodate a Warrior 3500 xt winch and is designed with a pull point, so you can use your UTV winch if equipped. Machine securement is made easy with MARLON’s unique tie down system. The Marlon Xplore II SXS Deck design has a positive park front tire position which gives the driver a real feel when your machine is loaded to the correct position. All loading ramp and deck ramps have rung protectors to assist in traction.

Have you ever been frustrated when you stop and check your tie downs and one or more are loose? Even though you tightened them to the last click on your ratchet and even squeezed one more in? ShockStraps patented Urethane shock absorbing membrane constantly adjusts and keeps tension on the webbing so your cargo is always secure. 2-inch ShockStrap Ratchet Safety Strap has an industry leading two year warranty and a breaking strength of over 6000 lbs. The Ratchet Safety Strap is built with a commercial grade ratchet, 2” black Polyester webbing, integrated soft ties and double steel hooks.

The Prestige Series is designed for multi-season and multisport hauling and often customized with storage and tie down options for hauling snowmobiles, offroad vehicles, motorcycles, and gear. Standard features include: easy entry and exit, smooth aluminum skin: bonded (screwless) .030” aluminum panel exterior, adjustable tie down positions: two full-length quickslides provide infinite tie down options. Tie down bars included, double-seal ramp doors: Spring-assist ramp door with double seal prevents leaks, keeping cargo dry, 13-inch aluminum wheels with radial tires (8’ wide model) or 14” radial tires (7’ wide model) with aluminum rims: Four cord rubber torsion axle with optional electric brakes.

floeintl.com

Starting MSRP: Visit your local FLOE dealer

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marlonproducts.com

Starting MSRP: Visit your local MARLON dealer

shockstrap.com

Starting MSRP: $39.99

tritontrailers.com

Starting MSRP: Visit your local TRITON dealer

FLAGSHIPS

7 5. LEGEND / Explorer Enclosed Sport Trailer

6. CANVASWORKS / SnoCaps

7. RHINO USA / Vehicle Ratchet Tie-Down Kit

8. MACS / UTV Wheel Net Pack

Legend’s #1 selling snowmobile trailer, the allaluminum Explorer Snow 7.5′ wide, has standard two tone wall colors with divider strip, lighted grab handle, white vinyl walls and ceilings, and stainless steel door hardware. Tandem axle versions are available in a variety of lengths from 17’-31’. The Explorer Snow 7.5′ wide has everything you need to hit the trails in style this season.

Looking for a practical way to enclose your open bed trailer? SnoCaps trailer enclosures are built to last, and make the ultimate alternative to a traditional trailer enclosure. SnoCaps are custom-fitted, soft-sided trailer enclosures built on heavy-walled aluminum tube frames. The protective skin is Shelter Rite fabric – a tough, waterproof, vinyl-coated polyester fabric with a matte finish, which has an average lifespan of 12-15 years. SnoCaps are lightweight, yet they’re also heavy-duty, waterproof, easily installed, removable, and can be custom fit to your open bed trailer.

Rhino USA is a small family business who designs and distributes superior powersports accessories backed by a lifetime guarantee and personalized customer service. They love the outdoors, the freedom of riding motorcycles, going off-roading, boating, hiking and living life to the fullest. 11,128lb guaranteed break strength - use for car, truck or UTV - (4) premium 2” x 8’ ratchet straps with padded t-handles + (4) axle strap tie downs.

Mac’s UTV Wheel Net Pack was developed specifically for the UTV /side-by-side market. Wheel nets lock your UTV wheels in place, while allowing the vehicle’s own suspension to smoothly absorb the bumps of the road. Each wheel net tie down is constructed using 2” wide 12,000 lb. capacity webbing, over-stitched for an additional margin of safety. This setup will work well with even the heaviest factory UTVs.

legendmfginc.com

Starting MSRP: Visit your local LEGEND dealer

canvasworksincmn.com

rhinousainc.com

macscustomtiedowns.com

Starting MSRP: $299.95

Starting MSRP: $199.97

May/June 2021 39

Midwest Rider

An Adventure Guide Led by GPS 1

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FLAGSHIPS 1. RIDE COMMAND / Plan. Track. Share. Connect. ridecommand.polaris.com

When Polaris first introduced their connectivity and navigation application known as RiderX several years ago, it was warmly received and viewed by most as a “nifty” application for your phone. While most agreed the idea had merit, the lack of functionality and vehicle interaction left most wanting more. That more became Ride Command, an incredibly robust suite of technologies allowing for smartphone connectivity and incorporates GPS navigation and mapping that allows you to plan and navigate thousands of miles of trails across North America. More recently, Ride Command has become even more robust, with a user interface that allow riders to give trail reports appearing on mapped trails in real time. These user reports allow others to learn about trail conditions and much more. Plus, the new 7-inch touchscreen display, called the 7S, was introduced to Polaris snowmobiles for model year 2021 after making its debut on dirt products. With it came a new group ride feature that allows you to visually track other riders in your group, even without cell service. Needless to say, Ride Command is fast becoming the navigation tool of choice for thousands of riders, regardless of brand. With this embrace of electronic trail mapping, navigation and reporting, more and more clubs are also turning to Ride Command as they replace their paper maps.

2. ONX APP / Explore More onxmaps.com

onX Offroad is an app you download to a phone or tablet. You can also access it in a web browser, which is great for planning at home. Upon opening the app, a user is immediately immersed in a world of off-road discovery – seeing open and closed trails, width restrictions, and different land management designations right on the map. The app itself has two modes: Dirt Mode and Snow Mode. No matter what your ORV or snowmobile, you can easily toggle between those two seasons.

Here are some highlights: DIRT MODE - 975 million acres of public lands - 550,000 miles of off-roading trails - 500,000 recreation points, like non-ethanol fuel stations, hiking trails, scenic vistas, breweries and river put-ins - 60,000 campgrounds and dispersed campsites - Open/closure dates and width restrictions on trails - Featured Trails that offer detail-rich descriptions, including difficulty ratings, total distance and time duration, as well as photos and really helpful overviews of the adventure - Offline, 3D, 24K topo, satellite, and hybrid maps

- Weather forecasts - The ability to create customized waypoints and track your ride – and share these with friends.

SNOW MODE All of the Dirt Mode functionality and fun as well as: - 144K miles of snowmobile trails across 30 US states (and in Canada) - Localized avalanche forecasts (from American Avalanche Association) - Slope angle overlays to help plan for safe travel in avalanche territory - Winter-specific points of interest, like snow parking areas and warming huts.

3. GARMIN TREAD / Own the Landscape garmin.com

Garmin announced its entrance into the powersports market with the new rugged Tread powersport navigator with Group Ride Radio. Riders can hop on their side-by-side, ATV, or snowmobile to navigate rolling sand dunes, wild forest trails in the rain, or cold snow tracks in the mountains with confidence. As riders venture the unknown, Tread’s Group Ride Radio ensures riders don’t miss a beat with the ability to track and communicate with up to 20 riders in their group. Keep track of friends on Tread’s map display and use the push-to-talk fist mic to talk with friends in the group. Alternatively, riders can pair Tread with their compatible Bluetooth®-enabled helmet or headset for hands-free voice communication. And thanks to the all-new Tread mobile app, users can easily import/export GPX files, access live weather, canned text messages and sync trip data across all devices. With Tread’s highly detailed mapping options, off-roaders and trail seekers can own their surroundings with preloaded topographic mapping of North America that surpasses the status quo with a comprehensive and rich mapping experience. Riders can seek challenging dirt trails and tap into U.S. Forest Service roads and Motor Vehicle Use Maps for full sized 4x4s, ATVs, side-by-sides and motorcycles. Tread also comes preloaded with public land boundaries for national forests, wilderness areas, Bureau of Land Management, and even private land boundaries and land owner information for parcels greater than four acres. In addition, riders can download high-resolution BirdsEye Satellite Imagery directly to Tread via Wi-Fi® to receive vivid overhead views of the land and surroundings with no annual subscription.

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Midwest Rider

Summer at ERX Motor Park in Elk River Is Tailor-Made for Off-Road Fans

42 Midwest Rider 2021

TURN UP THE HEAT f racing, cold beer and thousands of like-minded off-road enthusiasts coming together sounds like heaven, then welcome to ERX Motor Park in Elk River, Minnesota. In a span of just 13-years, the motorsports and event complex has grown in size and stature. Now encompassing over 400-acres, ERX is regarded as the midwest’s premiere motorsports venue with racing, concerts, charitable events, motorcycle hare scrambles, camping and way more, at what can be described as nothing less than a world-class facility. If you’ve been to an event at ERX, you know exactly what we’re talking about. If you haven’t, make this the year.

JUNE 9-13 HIGHLIFTER OFFROAD RALLY

New for 2021, the famous Highlifter event crew has added ERX to their list of incredible off-road rallies. The weekend will be filled with all types of competitions, trail rides, live entertainment, family games, camping and acres of smiles and good times. Make your reservations and get your tickets now erxmotorpark.com

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Midwest Rider

TURN UP THE HEAT

JULY 9-10 6TH ANNUAL ERX OFF-ROAD NATIONAL

Hang on tight, because things are about to get loud. To put it bluntly, there’s nothing quite like 900-horsepower offroad trucks thundering door-to-door in an all-out race for supremacy. If you attend one racing event this summer, the Off-Road National sits atop the list. A weekend of horsepower, camping and memories in a family-friendly atmosphere. Camping reservations and advanced tickets are on sale now. erxmotorpark.com

OCTOBER 9-10 NITRO RALLYCROSS

The brainchild of Nitro Circus ringleader and global motorsports icon Travis Pastrana, Nitro Rallycross (NRX) combines the speed of rally car racing with an innovative course that blends mixed surfaces and the biggest jumps these 600-horsepower cars have ever seen. This newly announced NRX tour is coming to ERX this fall. More details will be announced later this summer along with your chance to purchase tickets. The Midwest Rider crew has this one marked on their calendar as a must attend, and you should too. Learn more at erxmotorpark.com

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Midwest Rider

HAY DAYS IS ON

The World’s Biggest Powersports Event Is Back imply uttering the words Hay Days to any off-roader, snowmobile rider or powersports fan is usually immediately followed by an impassioned “hell yeah.” To put it simply, there’s nothing else quite like the Sno Barons Hay Days event held every fall in North Branch, Minnesota. Now, the club is preparing to host their 54th annual event, and Hay Days has become so much more than just a snowmobile grass drag. While snowmobiling will always represent the roots of the event and its primary focus, the modern version of Hay Days has become an all-encompassing powersports mecca for enthusiasts, dealers, businesses and manufacturers alike. It’s the place to see and be seen with more displays, more racing, more swap, more action and more power hungry, beer fueled fans all jammed into one big happy place. This is the Superbowl of powersports and we never miss it, nor should you. We’ll have more details and a full schedule of events in the next issue of Midwest Rider. Plus, watch for our special Hay Days 2021 events program. Until then, visit haydays.com to get updates, reserve swap or vendor space and see images from past events.

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