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Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas

Northern Michigan state parks offer 3,200 miles of trails for off road vehicles. Within those vast trials, 73% are located in Michigan state forests. The trails are broken down so that there is fun for the whole family. 30% of the trails can be use by mountain bikes or other types of pedal cycles, 50% is ATV trails, and the remaining 20% is used for trucks and other trail vehicles. All Michigan state park trails are well kept but are still natural. The DNR officers keep the trails lightly groomed, but there still are hazards to riders within the trails. Most trails have loose sandy surfaces with brush, rocks, and stumps. All of Michigan's trails have markers letting you know where you are, so no one gets turned around. No matter what time of year you visit the Michigan state parks there will be fun for everyone!

Another great aspect of Michigan State Parks is the activities they provide. Whether you are hiking, biking, or just want to take a stroll, Michigan State Parks are a great place you can get outdoors. Bikes are always welcome on all paved and non-paved roads in every one of the 97 state parks and recreation areas. If you want something a little more challenging than just a paved path, however, then mountain bike trails are for you. Rugged terrain, soil surface and much narrower paths are generally the characteristics of mountain bike paths, and state parks are the easiest way to access these trails.

Every summer the state parks around Michigan offer classes and activities known as state park explorer programs. 41 of the state’s 97 parks take part in these programs. The programs and hikes are different at every park because they highlight the history and features of that given area. It is a great family activity for children and parents of all ages that provides entertainment and education of the many wonderful parks in the state.

Northern Michigan state parks and recreation areas offer more than just summer time fun. For those of you wanting to take part in the fall or winter season, the Michigan Department of Natural Resource (DNR) wants to remind hunters and winter enthusiasts that many parks are open all year around. Some of these parks will even offer cabins, heated with wood or propane. Also if winter time is for you, many of the cabins offer reduced pricing.