Rules and tips for shoreline riding

• A valid Recreation Passport is required on vehicles. 
• Riders can use the equestrian staging area at the Silver Lake ORV Area, 8960 W. Fox Road in Mears, to unload and prepare their horses. The staging area is open to vehicles from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. *Please be loaded up and out of the parking lot by this time.
• Gates will open every day regardless of weather conditions. It’s at the visitor’s discretion to enter the dunes.
• The vehicle’s license plate number must correspond with the reservation.
• Bring your own fork and muck bucket. You must clean up your own manure/hay in the equestrian staging area; a designated manure collection trailer is provided. No manure in any dumpster.
• Vault toilets are in both the equestrian staging area and dunes.
• Be aware that DNR staff may be working and operating 4-wheel drive trucks and tractors in the area during the first two weeks of November.
• There is limited refuse service provided for trash.
• Alcohol is prohibited.

General rules

• You must bring your own horse.
• Open horseback riding in the ORV and/or pedestrian areas is not allowed. 
• No drinking water is available for visitors or horses. Please plan accordingly.

On the dunes

• A predetermined riding route takes riders through the dunes to the Lake Michigan shoreline. The route is signed and it’s important to familiarize yourself before heading out.
• You cannot use tie-downs on horses near water.
• The dunes are open to hunting, but it is not a frequent occurrence.
• The dunes are an everchanging environment. Drifts and freezing conditions can drastically change the landscape overnight.
• Stay out of all ponds as the footing may not be secure and there could be steep/deep drop-offs.

Tips for riding

• Condition your horse to be fit enough for at least a 5- to 10-mile ride.
• Be courteous toward others. When near other riders and pedestrians, give space and stay at a walk.
• Walking or “shuffling” is best when climbing up the dunes. Try to avoid loping or cantering uphill; these gaits can be more strenuous as your horse sinks deeper in the sand. Take breaks as needed.
• Consider riding parallel along the shoreline and not directly into the water until your horse becomes accustomed to the waves.

Questions

If you have questions about shoreline riding, please contact the park at 231-873-3083.

Please note: the DNR also offers a fat-tire bike season at Silver Lake ORV Area Dec. 15-March 15 (each year).