| Home | Sled Facts |
Probably the single most important reason people come to northern Michigan to snowmobile is because of our extensive trails. Northern Michigan has a network of trails that sprawl across the Northern Lower and Upper Peninsulas. From Grayling in Crawford County, you can easily reach Roscommon, Kalkaska, Otsego and Oscoda Counties and from the Mackinaw Bridge and Soo Locks to the Porcupine Mountains and Wisconsin boarder, you can visit destinations like the famous Whitefish Point, AuSable Point Lighthouse, the Grand Sable Dunes, Copper Harbor and everything in between! Michigan also boasts many restaurants and motels so you will never be left out in the cold. Centrally located in the Upper Peninsula, Grand Marais makes the perfect base from which to head out on day trips and return to for a relaxing evening at one of the great resorts, motels and privately owned rental homes and cabins. No matter how big or small your next snowmobile trip to northern Michigan, remember these few little tips to help make your trip a great experience.
Plan Ahead - Determine where you are going. Research lodging in the area and make accommodations. Try to find out what types of dining or grocery stores there are in the area. Acquire some trail maps ahead of time, and depending on your riding skill level and the level of those around you, choose trails that will not be too challenging or too long. Plan your days of riding and let friends or family at home know where you are and when you will be returning, checking in periodically. Never ride alone. Be sure to follow maps, and if you get lost, ask a local business or citizen for directions. If you must approach a private residence, park your sled at the end of the driveway and walk up with your helmet off preferably alone. This will reduce intimidation of the property owner. Most people are very willing to offer directions.
Maps - Detailed maps are the key to snowmobiling fun in northern Michigan. You can acquire maps at area Chambers of Commerce. Chambers are also a great resource to find restaurants, lodging and other points of interest in the area. Chamber staff members are always eager to help and very resourceful.
Sled Courtesy - It is common knowledge that speed and alcohol kills. Every year hundreds of people are injured due to careless snowmobiling. Many are injured seriously and many die. Nearly all these fatalities are directly related to excessive alcohol use and excessive speed. Currently under Michigan law it is illegal to operate a snowmobile while under the influence of alcohol. It is also illegal to travel at a rate of speed greater than is reasonable for existing conditions. These laws are strictly enforced by local and state police as well as the Department of Natural Resources. Sledders, do us all a favor, keep you speed down and save the drinking until after the ride.
Trail Courtesy - This one is simple. Pack out trash. If you see some along the way, pick it up. Keep a garbage bag on board for this reason alone. If you are doing something that leaves more that a snowmobile track, you are doing something wrong. Lets all try to keep Michigan the cleanest and most beautiful state in the union!
Sledding in northern Michigan is with out a doubt some of the very best in the world. These are just a couple of simple guidelines mainly to refresh your memory and to introduce a few basic sled concepts to new riders. Both sled veterans and newcomers can benefit by reading about sled laws and trail courtesy from time to time. So next time you are out on the trails, try to practice these simple guidelines, this will help insure a safe and fun ride and keep Michigan a great place to live.