The state trails are well marked, by signs and usage. However, if you jump off the trails and run the logging or county roads it can get interesting. Having a good map, or a least familiarizing yourself with the area roads before riding is good. Some of these trails are long and if you suffer a breakdown knowing where the roads are help greatly in retrieving your buddy's bike.
I don't ride the state trails during rifle season, Nov 15-30, as the riding times are restricted to:
"ORV operation is prohibited in public hunting areas during the regular November firearm deer season, from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., except for these cases:
- Going to or from a residence or hunting camp that is inaccessible by a conventional vehicle (subject to state land regulations)
- On private property, with landowner’s permission
- Passenger vehicles while being operated on roads capable of sustaining automobile traffic
- Persons holding a “Permit to Hunt From a Standing Vehicle” or otherwise meeting disability requirements while engaged in hunting or fishing activity"
http://www.offroad-ed.com/mi/handbook/o ... ns_orv.htm
December rides are fun, but with the weather, I usually don't get out much. There is a 10 day season for muzzleloaders (this season varies by zone
http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-15 ... --,00.html), so if I ride I don't ride early in the morning or during the later afternoon hunt in order to avoid the bulk of the hunters. Also, I tend to be one of those guys in orange!
Sthutch
