Thrilling ORV rides, outdoor exploring and forest adventures are waiting down one of Michigan’s thousands of miles of state forest roads. Every year, the DNR updates maps of these roads to improve accuracy and protect the environment, and then notifies the public of any changes. New maps go up at Michigan.gov/ForestRoads Friday, April 1, in an interactive web format and as printable PDF maps.

Map changes are based on considerations that include changing road conditions, data cleanup and input received from residents around the state. Maps show where state forest roads are open or closed to off-road vehicle use and which roads are only open to conventional vehicles. It’s important to stay on these roads when using motor vehicles to reduce erosion and damage to wildlife habitat.

The following mileages will be open to ORVs starting April 1:

• In the Upper Peninsula, about 5,498 miles – roughly 98% of the total 5,594 miles.
• In the northern Lower Peninsula, about 6,205 miles – roughly 85% of the total 7,317.2 miles.
• In the southern Lower Peninsula, more than 9 miles – roughly 2.5% of the total 370.9 miles.