ATV enthusiasts can hit the trails for free across Minnesota during the Department of Natural Resources’ “No Registration Weekend” on June 14 and 15.
DNR Off-highway vehicle program consultant Joe Unger says the event allows riders whose ATVs aren’t normally registered, such as those from out of state or with agricultural registrations, to try out the state’s recreational trails.
“It allows folks that their ATV’s aren’t normally registered to ride on recreational trails to go out and try them on trails,” Unger said. “These would be folks coming from maybe out of state, you know, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Iowa, people that have ATV’s that just have their agricultural registration.”
Unger encourages newcomers to start with easier routes like the Sioux Line Trail or CC Andrews State Forest. For those seeking more variety, he suggests the St. Croix or Magic State Forests, or trails along the North Shore for more challenging terrain.
“If you’re a newcomer to this sport, I would recommend some of our easier trails such as the Sioux line, which is an old railroad bed trail. Also, the general CC Andrews State Forest, which is generally flat and sandy,” Unger said.
“We have a lot of different places out there that vary in terrain. If you’re in the Twin Cities area and you’re looking for a little bit more variety, St. Croix State Forest and the Magic State Forest or just a straight shot up 35.”
“And of course, along the North Shore of Minnesota, we got a lot of beautiful trails up in that area. The state and some of them are a little bit more challenging, a little bit more rocky for the more experienced rider, but we have a whole slew of trails on pretty much every corner of Minnesota.”
Riders are reminded to prioritize safety while enjoying the trails. More information is available at the Minnesota DNR website.
