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Michigan's Free Activity Weekends

The State of Michigan offers its residents and outstate visitors "free" weekends to fish, ORV, or snowmobile each year.

Free Snowmobiling Weekend

January 17th-19th, 2025

This weekend allows snowmobilers to operate their machines without a snowmobile registration or trail permit. Operators must still follow all rules and regulations over snowmobiling in Michigan.

The state instituted this event to allow snowmobilers to hit the trails quickly and to allow out-of-state visitors to check out the huge variety of trails that Michigan has to offer.

Free Fishing Weekends

February 15th-16th & June 7th-8th, 2025

For both days, all fishing licenses will be waived, but fishing regulations still apply. Enjoy great fishing on inland lakes and all five Great Lakes. Some of the best fishing is right here in West Michigan, with salmon, trout, walleye, and pike in plentiful supply.

Whether you’re an experienced angler, or want to give it a try for the first time, these two weekends offer the opportunity for great fishing fun.

Looking to rent a boat for the free fishing weekend in June? Check out our West Michigan Boating & Fishing Directory!

Free ORV Weekends

June 7th-8th & August 16th-17th, 2025

Michigan residents and out-of-state visitors can ride DNR-designated routes and trails without purchasing an ORV license or trail permit. The first free weekend coincides with Michigan’s June Free Fishing Weekend.

There are 4,000 miles of state-designated ORV routes and trails and the state’s six scramble areas (Bull Gap, Black Lake Scramble Area, Holly Oaks ORV Park, Silver Lake State Park, The Mounds and St. Helen’s Motorsport Area). Participants must adhere to all other ORV rules and laws, and the Recreation Passport is still required where applicable.

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Discover more to do in West Michigan!

Scroll below for more articles about Activities & Attractions in the West Michigan area.
 

West Michigan Activities & Attractions

Manistee’s Riverwalk

The Manistee Riverwalk follows the Manistee River from Jones Street, under the US-31 bridge, behind downtown, and ends at First Street beach.

West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay from high overlook of Old Mission Peninsula in the fall.

Old Mission Peninsula

Visit the Old Mission Peninsula, situated between the west arm and east arm of Grand Traverse Bay.

M-22 Benzie County

Take one of the most scenic drives in the nation as you travel across M-22 in West Michigan. A long winding road of adventure awaits!