With the Keweenaw Peninsula snowmobile season winding down, ATV trail riding will return very soon.
Traditionally, while Michigan ATV trails officially open April 1, the Upper Peninsula takes a few weeks to allow the trails to dry from recent snow melt. While the Copper Country’s riders want to get out on the trails as soon as possible, there are always a few items to check off the list before hitting the trails.
Riders should purchase their 2026 ATV and off-road vehicle trail permits. While ATV and off-road riders wait patiently to get outdoors in the Copper Country, the spring season offers a great time to perform routine maintenance inspections or fix issues on the vehicle that might have been forgotten about during the excitement of snowmobile season.
Some might even take the preparation time to begin planning longer trips or day-long adventures. The Keweenaw Peninsula is home to hundreds of miles of ATV and off-road trails, and there are plenty more beautiful landscapes to see both near and far from the western Upper Peninsula.
Michigan DNR officials also emphasize riders take the extra time to go over Ride Right campaign tips for staying safe on the trails and what to do in case of an emergency. Ride Right means stay to the right side of the trail, ride sober and ride with your group.
Before heading out on a day trip or a little bit of fun for a few hours, make sure everyone in the group knows the rules of riding right in Michigan and the procedure an individual will follow in case of an accident or backcountry emergency.
Learn more about Michigan’s ATV and off-road recreation activities in the Keweenaw Peninsula online. Find details on ORV/ATV trail permits in Michigan here.
