One of the best things about staying near the Lakes of the North community in northern Michigan is that you don't have to drive far to find incredible trail systems. For ORV riders and snowmobilers, this area is as good as it gets in the Lower Peninsula — with hundreds of miles of maintained trails practically right out the door.
Trail Access from the Property
Granny's Hideaway sits near the Lakes of the North community, which puts you within easy reach of northern Michigan's extensive DNR trail network. Depending on conditions and the time of year, you can access ORV and snowmobile trails without a long drive. That kind of proximity is rare — and it's one of the biggest reasons outdoor enthusiasts keep coming back to this area.
ORV Season (Spring through Fall)
Michigan's ORV season runs from the moment the ground firms up in spring through late fall — but ask any local and they'll tell you spring and fall are the sweet spot for SxS riding. The trails are less crowded, temps are perfect, and the scenery is stunning. Summer up here is for the lake. The trail systems near Mancelona and the Antrim/Charlevoix county area offer a mix of terrain — wooded two-tracks, open meadow sections, and more technical wooded trails for those who want a challenge.
ORV access in the Jordan River State Forest and surrounding Antrim County DNR land is area-specific — some roads and trails are open to ORVs, others are not. Always check the current Antrim County DNR Forest Roads Map and posted signage before riding. Trail conditions and permitted routes can be found on the Michigan DNR ORV Trail Finder at michigan.gov/dnr. Polaris Ride Command is the app most local riders use for navigation and trail maps.
Michigan ORV Permit Requirements
If you're riding in Michigan, you need an ORV license for your machine plus a trail permit sticker if you're on designated trails. These are available at most local sporting goods stores, gas stations near trail heads, and online through the Michigan DNR website. It's a simple process and the money goes toward trail maintenance.
Snowmobile Season (December through March)
When the snow flies up north — and it does, reliably — this area transforms into snowmobile paradise. The Antrim County trail system connects into the statewide Michigan Snowmobile Trail Network, giving you hundreds of miles of groomed trail access from one starting point.
The best conditions typically run from Christmas through early March. Snowfall in this part of Michigan is no joke — Mancelona sits in a lake-effect snow zone and regularly sees 150–200+ inches per season, with intense winters like 2024-2025 topping 240 inches. The DNR grooms major corridors regularly, and mid-winter conditions are typically excellent. Trail conditions are updated daily at the Michigan DNR website and apps like Polaris Ride Command.
What to Bring
For ORV trips: eye protection, layers for variable weather, a basic tool kit, and a trail map downloaded offline. Cell service can be spotty in deep woods. Helmets are recommended but not required for riders 16 and older in Michigan.
For snowmobiling: full snow gear (bib, jacket, boots, gloves), helmet (required by Michigan law), a heated visor is highly recommended, a balaclava, and hand warmers as backup. Fuel up before hitting the trails — remote trail areas don't always have nearby stations.
Whether it's summer dust or winter powder, the trails near Granny's Hideaway deliver the kind of access that makes the whole trip.