Free ORV Weekend almost here, brush up on safety

Share or view as webpage | Update preferences![]() The Recreation Passport requirement still applies in locations where it’s required, including when motor vehicles are used to trailer ORVs into state parks and to state-designated trailheads, and for ORVs operating at Silver Lake ORV Area.Another perk: the regular entrance fee at Holly Oaks ORV Park in Oakland County will be waived for this special weekend. ORV adventures abound for this Michigan family ![]() There’s the adventure of it, the thrill-seeking, and it’s also relaxing.”Come summer, the family looks forward to visiting the ORV area at Silver Lake.“It’s such a different and unique area – it seems like it’s a world away,” he said, adding he began visiting the park when he was about 10. “You have beautiful Lake Michigan right there, you’re on these huge sand dunes that are ever-changing – it’s just a gorgeous place. You can’t believe it is in your own backyard, just a couple hours away. It’s thrilling to ride up and down the steep hills, in such a wide, open space.”Brown’s son Evan (pictured above) is an ORV enthusiast, too, and the 15-year-old learned early on the importance of riding safely. “He grew up going through the ORV safety program,” said Brown, a paramedic who has witnessed ORV crashes over the years. “It’s a risky sport, but the one thing you can control is your behavior. You can have fun and still ride safety – there’s a way to do both.”If you’re planning an end-of-summer adventure, with family and friends, on the dunes at Silver Lake or on another part of Michigan’s 4,000 miles of off-road vehicle routes, remember your safety gear, ride at a safe speed and know the conditions of the trail you’re riding. Brush up on safety – Speed and rider inexperience are the primary contributing factors for ORV accidents, serious injuries and death. Be sure to follow these Ride Right safety tips during your next ORV excursion.Also, keep the following tips in mind if you’re the lead rider in your group. ![]() |