Michigan Side-by-Side Trails: Stay & Ride in the Western Upper Peninsula
- Two Rivers Motel and Cabins
- May 8
- 3 min read
If you’re trailering all over the U.P. to ride your side-by-side, you’re doing it wrong.
At Two Rivers Motel & Cabins, you can unload once—and ride straight to thousands of miles of trails through the Ottawa National Forest.
No trailers. No hassle. Just ride.
Planning a Western U.P. side-by-side trip?
👉Check availability at Two Rivers Motel & Cabins and ride right from your door.
Why Riders Love Staying Here
✔️Plenty of Parking for Trucks and Trailers
No fuss. No tight city parking. Just room to park, unload, and enjoy the ride.
✔️ Ride-In / Ride-Out Access
You’re not wasting time loading up every morning. Hit the trails right from your cabin or motel room with direct access to nearby ORV routes and trail systems.
✔️ Access to 4,000+ Miles of Michigan Side-by-Side Trails
Western U.P. riding is a different level—less crowded, more remote, and way more scenic.
✔️ Close to Everything That Matters
Gas stops
Food & bars
Trail connectors
Scenic stops (waterfalls, forest loops)
✔️ Built for all Types of Riders (Not Just Tourists)
You’re not getting weird looks pulling in muddy—we expect it.
What Makes the Western U.P. Different
Most people think of crowded ORV parks.
This isn’t that.
Out here, you’ll find:
Long stretches of uninterrupted riding
Dense forest trails
Water crossings and elevation changes
Scenic stops like waterfalls and overlooks
Michigan Side-by-side Trails (especially in the U.P.) are the kind of riding where you lose track of time—in a good way.
Stay Somewhere That Fits the Experience
At Two Rivers, you’re not staying in a generic hotel.
You’re getting:
Campfire-ready nights after long rides
A laid-back, no-frills U.P. experience
👉 A true U.P. experience, starting where the pavement ends.
When to Plan Your Trip
Spring: Cooler temps, fewer crowds, muddy fun
Summer: Long riding days + perfect weather
Fall: Unreal colors + crisp air
👉 Bonus: Michigan’s Free ORV Weekend (June & August) is one of the best times to try it out.
Pro Tips
Bring basic tools + tire repair
Download trail maps before you go
Watch for changing trail conditions
Respect land and stay on designated routes
Fill up anytime you see a gas station. In this area, they are few and far between.
Side-by-Side & ORV FAQs
Can we ride directly from the property?
Yes! Guests can ride directly from Two Rivers Motel & Cabins to nearby ORV and forest trail systems in Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula.
Is there room for trucks and trailers?
Absolutely. We have plenty of space for trucks, trailers, and groups hauling multiple side-by-sides or ORVs.
What types of machines are allowed on the trails?
Michigan ORV trails and routes may allow different vehicle types depending on the area. Always check current state regulations and trail signage before riding.
Are the trails crowded?
One of the best parts of riding in the Western U.P. is the space. Compared to many ORV destinations, trails here are often less crowded and more remote.
What is the best time of year for side-by-side riding?
Spring, summer, and fall all offer great riding opportunities:
Spring brings cooler temps, very few bugs, and muddy fun
Summer offers long riding days
Fall is famous for incredible color tours
Are there scenic stops along the trails?
Definitely. Many riders plan routes around waterfalls, forest overlooks, rivers, and scenic backroads throughout the Ottawa National Forest region.
Do we need an ORV permit in Michigan?
Michigan ORV permits and licenses may be required depending on your machine and where you ride. Be sure to check current Michigan DNR regulations before your trip.
Are there gas stations and restaurants nearby?
Yes. Riders have access to nearby gas stations, restaurants, bars, and small-town stops throughout the area.
Can groups stay together at Two Rivers?
Yes. With both motel rooms and cabins available, Two Rivers works well for riding groups, families, and friends traveling together.
Is the property good for campfires and relaxing after riding?
Absolutely. After a long day on the trails, many guests enjoy relaxing around the fire pit and taking in the quiet Northwoods atmosphere.
Are the trails beginner-friendly?
The Western U.P. offers a mix of riding opportunities, from easier scenic routes to more rugged and remote trail systems.
Can we explore waterfalls during our trip?
Yes! Many popular waterfalls and scenic areas are located within driving or riding distance of Two Rivers Motel & Cabins.
Whether you’re planning a weekend ride or a full Western U.P. adventure, Two Rivers Motel & Cabins makes a perfect home base for exploring Michigan’s side-by-side trails.
Book your stay at Two Rivers Motel & Cabins and ride right from your door.
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