Explore Silver Lake Sand Dunes: Family-Friendly Guided Dune Buggy Adventure in Michigan
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; ideal for families with young children as riding requires no physical exertion beyond sitting securely.
Overview
Discover the thrill of navigating the vast Silver Lake Sand Dunes on a guided, family-friendly buggy tour near Mears, Michigan. Learn why this hour-long adventure offers a safe, scenic, and unforgettable way to explore one of the Midwest’s best dune parks.
Guided Day Tour
Priced per Vehicle -- 1 hour Fully Guided Tour on the Silver Lake Sand Dunes
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the breathtaking Silver Lake Sand Dunes on a guided, family-friendly tour! Drive through the stunning ORV Park with a trained Dune Guide, who will share insights about the unique landscape. Enjoy a guaranteed hour of dune exploration, ensuring unforgettable memories in this beautiful natural setting.
Join us for a guided tour of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes!
AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT MONDAY -- FRIDAY
Please call 231-873-8833 to make a reservation!
Duration
1 Hour This is a guaranteed 1 hour of dune time but please plan for this excursion to be 1.5 - 2 hours.
About
Join us on a fully guided, slow paced, and family friendly tour of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes.
You will join our trained Dune Guide on a tour of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes ORV Park. You will drive around the park following the dune guide while they point out different areas of the park and get you aquinted with the different directional zones.
This is a guaranteed hour of Dune time. We ask that everyone arrives 45 minutes before start time* so we can have plenty of time on the dunes! *You may be with other people on the tour, late arrival could result in cancellation, due to holding up the tour for others.
More Info
Vehicle Teryx:
- 4 people MAX per vehicle
- 21 or older to rent and drive with valid drivers license.
- Persons under 21 can be passengers. Persons under 18 years of age require parent/guardian signature to be a passenger.
- Booster and front facing car seats allowed in Teryx. (2 years & older)
- Automatic, 4WD, 2-way radio, cup holders, and place for a small cooler. (NO ALCOHOL)
What to Bring:
Eye Protection is required to get into the state park. This includes glasses, sunglasses, goggles, safety glasses, etc. We sell these items in store and you are welcome to bring your own. Valid Driver’s License: Persons 21 and older are permitted to drive the 4 seat Teryx. Persons who meet this age requirement and would like to drive, please bring your Valid Driver’s Jacket or Sweatshirt Even if it is a hot day we recommend coming prepared with a jacket tor sweatshirt because it can get chillier by the lake.
Adventure Tips
Bring Eye Protection
Sunglasses, goggles, or glasses are mandatory to enter the dunes — they protect against blowing sand and debris.
Arrive Early
Make sure to arrive 45 minutes before your tour to allow time for orientation and preparation.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures along Lake Michigan can change quickly; a light jacket or sweatshirt is recommended.
Follow the Guide’s Directions
Stick close to the guide for safety and to gain insights about the dunes’ zones and features.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Piping plover, a rare shorebird native to the dunes
- Eastern fox squirrel often spotted in dune forests
History
The Silver Lake Sand Dunes area was established as a state park to protect unique dune ecosystems and provide recreation since the 1920s.
Conservation
The operator promotes responsible dune use by limiting group sizes and requiring protective gear to minimize environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Mears
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Eye Protection
Necessary to shield your eyes from blowing sand and meet park regulations.
summer specific
Helmet
Provided by the operator for head safety during the dune ride.
Layered Clothing
Protects against changing temperatures and lake breezes.
spring specific
Closed-toe Shoes
Recommended to protect feet when exiting the dune buggy and walking in the sand.