Michigan's DNR Will Host a Free Snowmobile Weekend

Free is always good.

Photo by: Garmin

By: Jonathon Klein

Jan 15, at 9:56am ET

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Everything today costs money. In some case, everything costs a lot of money. And that's being felt by nearly everyone across the political spectrum, as well as businesses and local communities.

People aren't going out as much as they once did as inflation rises. The cost to do something or buy something to have an experience has risen dramatically, leading the powersports industry to drastically shrink. So whenever a group, organization, or business is offering something for free, we take notice. Especially when that free thing involves powersports, which is exactly the case here.

This weekend, Michigan's Department of Natural Resources will host a free snowmobiling weekend that'll give back to the community by waiving most of the fees involved with riding the trails. Neat!

According to Fox 2 Detroit, "During this [weekend]," which occurs between January 17th through the 19th, "both Michiganders and those visiting from other states can ride on Michigan Department of Natural Resources snowmobile trails, public roads, and public lands without a snowmobile registration or trail permit."

The outlet added, "Riders still need recreation permits if they will be accessing areas that require them, such as state parks. Normally, snowmobiles must be registered with the Secretary of State and riders must have a $52 snowmobile trail permit to ride on public lands and trails. This is not required for snowmobiles operated exclusively on private land. "

While not stated in the article, snowmobile registrations and use have declined drastically in recent years, and it's affected local businesses that rely on those excursions in places where you can ride. Likewise, snowmobile purchases have also gone down from pandemic highs, both because prices have gone insane and the snow hasn't been as plentiful due to climate change. This free weekend, however, could well help those most affected by these issues.

Everyone, however, is still required to follow Michigan's DNR snowmobiling safety rules during the weekend. So don't act a fool just because you're not forking over your cash.