Minnesota Celebrates “No Registration Weekend” for ATV Trails

No Registration Weekend Runs June 2-4

DULUTH, Minn. – As it’s starting to feel like summer, more and more Northlanders are heading outdoors.

This weekend is perfect for ATV riders ready to hit the trails.

It’s “No Registration Weekend” for all Minnesota public ATV trails.

Meaning, Minnesotans with private registrations or anyone out-of-state can ride more than 3,000 miles of public trails for free.

“I’m able to see birds, wild flowers, enjoy traveling with friends and relatives. A lot of people will stop and have a picnic along the way. And just enjoy the great outdoors,” said Mary Straka, Off-Highway Vehicle Program Consultant for the MN Department of Natural Resources.

Before you head for the trails, the DNR is giving out some safety tips.

“wear your helmet, eye protection, long sleeve shirt, long pants, ankle boots and take ATV safety training,” said Straka.

Although you won’t need a registration, all riders will need to be certified.

The “No Registration Weekend” runs June 2-4.

Some great places to start, according to Straka, include:
• The Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle State Recreation Area, a 1,200-acre OHV park in Gilbert with 36 miles of scenic trails for riders of all abilities. The recreation area will have special programs, rides and displays on Saturday, June 4.
• The 100-mile trail system in Nemadji State Forest, which connects to the Matthew Lourey State Trail and the Gandy Dancer Trail for more riding opportunities.
• The 29-mile Spider Lake trail system in Foot Hills State Forest, where riders can curve around lakes and ponds, go up and down a variety of hills, and view overlooks from the ridges throughout the forest.
• The 200-mile Northwoods Regional Trail System in Aitkin and Itasca counties, where riders can use the Soo Line Trail to connect to great communities and trail loops.

The DNR advises riders to keep safety in mind when out on the trails. In particular:
• Safety training is required for ATV riders born after July 1, 1987, and it is recommended for everyone that operates an ATV.
• Kids under age 18 must wear a DOT-certified helmet.
• Kids age 16 and under must fit the ATV they are operating and be able to properly reach and control the handlebars and reach the foot pegs while sitting upright on the ATV.

Trail maps, updates on trail conditions, youth ATV Safety training and other OHV information can be found online at www.mndnr.gov/ohv.