When we take our Polaris General deep into the woods on designated northern Michigan ORV trails, I am reminded of how fortunate we are to live here.
Maybe it’s the feeling of fresh air on the ORV trail.
Maybe it’s the way the light filters through the trees as we ride deeper into the forest.
One thing I do know – I love spending time in nature looking at something other than a computer or phone screen.
Northern Michigan ORV Trails
We have miles and miles of trails designated for ORV use.
And that means hours and hours of going deep into the woods.
The Indian Gardens ORV Route in Emmet County is one of those places where the ride itself is the whole point.
We take it slow, watch the woods go by, and see what is around the next bend.
Sometimes, we have a destination like Larks Lake, which is shown in my top photo.
Others times, there’s no specific destination. We just ride.
The ORV Route is Part of the Experience
Not every path through the woods is a trail.
Indian Gardens is a designated ORV route.
Before heading out, check the current DNR map, follow the signs, and make sure every stretch of your planned ride is open to your vehicle.
Michigan DNR: Where to ride ORVs
Last spring, we had some strong storms and torrential rain that caused big washouts along the trail.
Due to the hard work of local volunteers and the Harbor Springs Snowmobile Club, almost 100% of the trails are open.
In late September 2026, we’ve been able to ride safely on every trail near our home in Good Hart.
Planning your ride before leaving gives you more time for the good stuff: winding through the trees, feeling the change in the air, and enjoying the particular peace that comes with being out in the woods.
Good Trail Manners = A Better Ride
A side-by-side is fun, but it takes up space and can kick up dust. A little consideration goes a long way:
Stay on the marked route. Never take an unmarked shortcut. Those detours widen the ORV route and damage the surrounding ground.
Keep right and slow down. Indian Gardens ORV Route is single lane and can have traffic coming the other way. Watch for riders around curves and drive at a speed that gives you time to react.
Give others room. Slow down for oncoming riders. If you meet people riding bikes or walking, pass them safely.
Use caution around horses. Give horseback riders plenty of space and communicate with the rider before passing.
Pull over thoughtfully. Our Polaris runs hot so we need to pull over to cool off. We always choose a safe, designated place to stop, keeping the middle of the route clear.
Take your trash home. The pristine woods are the reason we came. Please leave our Northern Michigan ORV Trails that way.
Those basics follow the Michigan DNR’s trail etiquette guidance.
Because, safe rides are more fun for everyone sharing the area.
Before you ride Northern Michigan ORV trails
Check the DNR’s current Northern Michigan ORV trails map and closures.
Make sure your license and trail permit meet the requirements for the route.
Michigan requires an ORV license and trail permit for a non-street-licensed ORV on designated routes.
Michigan DNR: Permits and Requirements
Bring what you need for the ride – water, snacks, your phone – and take your time.
For me and my husband, riding our Polaris General is never about how fast we can go.
It’s more more about being in the woods and taking in the views.
Riding the trails is the kind of northern Michigan afternoon I will never get tired of.
